The Secretary-General strongly condemns the incident that led to the killing of two Indonesian peacekeepers of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) on 30 March, when an explosion of unknown origin destroyed their vehicle near Bani Hayyan, south Lebanon. A third peacekeeper was severely injured, and a fourth was also hurt.
The Secretary-General expresses his deepest condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of the peacekeepers who died, and to the Republic of Indonesia. He wishes a full and fast recovery to the injured peacekeepers.
This was the second fatal incident within a 24-hour span. Attacks on peacekeepers must stop and are grave violations of international humanitarian law and of Security Council Resolution 1701 (2006) and may amount to war crimes. There will need to be accountability.
No one should ever have to die serving the cause of peace.
The Secretary-General strongly urges all actors to uphold their obligations under international law and to ensure the safety and security of UN personnel and property at all times.
The Secretary-General extends his deepest appreciation to all the courageous men and women serving with UNIFIL. He recalls the importance of their safety and security, and UNIFIL’s freedom of movement.
The United Nations urges the parties to de-escalate immediately and fully adhere to their obligations under Security Council resolution 1701 (2006).