Decision by 16 European countries contributing to UNIFIL to “apply maximum political and diplomatic pressure” on Israel

Sixteen European countries contributing to the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) have decided to apply “maximum political and diplomatic pressure” on Israel to prevent attacks on UNIFIL positions in southern Lebanon.

Reactions from Europe continue regarding Israel’s attacks on the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL). In a statement made by the Italian Ministry of Defense, it was reported that the defense ministers of the 16 European countries contributing to UNIFIL gathered today in an online conference chaired by Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto and French Defense Minister Sabastien Lecornu.

The statement noted that during the meeting, the defense ministers expressed their intention to exert “maximum” diplomatic and political pressure on Israel after the firing upon UNIFIL positions in southern Lebanon during the clashes between the Israeli army and Hezbollah, adding that “It was also clearly stated that Hezbollah cannot use UNIFIL personnel as a shield during the conflict.”

The ministers emphasized the importance of maintaining the presence of the UNIFIL mission in Lebanon, and it was acknowledged that any decision regarding the future of the UNIFIL mission should be made collectively within the UN framework.

The statement strongly emphasized the necessity to review the rules of engagement to allow UNIFIL to operate more effectively and safely.

The meeting organized by the Italian and French defense ministers aimed to define a joint action for Europe’s contribution to the UNIFIL mission in light of the recent developments in southern Lebanon.

Statement from Israel

Following the reactions from European Union countries, Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz made a statement emphasizing the “great importance” of the activities of the UN peacekeeping forces in southern Lebanon. Katz stated that UNIFIL forces positioned near the border area could play a vital role following the end of the war with Hezbollah. In a statement posted on social media, Katz said, “Israel places great importance on UNIFIL’s activities and has no intention of harming this institution and its personnel.”