The UN peacekeeping mission in Lebanon has confirmed that it shot down an Israeli drone that was reportedly flying aggressively over its patrol area in southern Lebanon near the border town of Kfar Kila. This marks a rare action by Unifil, which has operated in the region since 1978. The Israeli military, however, claimed that the drone was engaged in routine intelligence-gathering and posed no threat.
Lt Colonel Nadav Shoshani stated that initial investigations suggest Unifil forces intentionally downed the drone, which did not pose a risk. Following the drone incident, Israeli forces dropped a grenade in the area where the drone fell, and an Israeli tank fired near Unifil positions, although no injuries were reported.
Despite a ceasefire in place since last November, tensions between Israel and Lebanon have persisted, with Israel regularly conducting drone flights over Lebanon. Unifil has voiced concerns regarding Israeli actions as violations of Lebanese sovereignty.
As diplomatic efforts ramp up to stabilize the situation, Lebanon's leadership is hoping to re-establish control and enforce the truce agreements, with key meetings involving US and French officials scheduled for the upcoming week.
Lt Colonel Nadav Shoshani stated that initial investigations suggest Unifil forces intentionally downed the drone, which did not pose a risk. Following the drone incident, Israeli forces dropped a grenade in the area where the drone fell, and an Israeli tank fired near Unifil positions, although no injuries were reported.
Despite a ceasefire in place since last November, tensions between Israel and Lebanon have persisted, with Israel regularly conducting drone flights over Lebanon. Unifil has voiced concerns regarding Israeli actions as violations of Lebanese sovereignty.
As diplomatic efforts ramp up to stabilize the situation, Lebanon's leadership is hoping to re-establish control and enforce the truce agreements, with key meetings involving US and French officials scheduled for the upcoming week.
