A United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) convoy was violently attacked on Friday, resulting in injuries to two peacekeepers, including the outgoing Deputy Force Commander, Major General Chok Bahadur Dhakal of Nepal.
The convoy was en route to the Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport, when it was intercepted and set on fire by Hezbollah supporters, who were protesting the Lebanese government’s decision to bar two Iranian planes from landing, a move that was prompted by Israeli allegations that Iran was using civilian flights to smuggle funds to Hezbollah.
Several videos circulating online show a white U.N. vehicle on fire. Separate footage shows a group of young men carrying yellow flags chasing and assaulting what appear to be peacekeepers attempting to flee.
A Convoy containing the Deputy Head of United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), has been attacked by Hezbollah Supporters near Beirut International Airport, with at least one Vehicle being burned and several UNIFIL Staff Members being injured before the Lebanese Army… pic.twitter.com/kDEQtYRO69
— OSINTdefender (@sentdefender) February 14, 2025
The Lebanese just attacked a UNIFIL convoy, injuring several peacekeepers including the deputy commander of the force and destroying three vehicles. Interesting how that’s not bigger news… pic.twitter.com/kpB5wI4FmY
— Uri Kurlianchik (@VerminusM) February 14, 2025
“We are shocked by this outrageous attack on peacekeepers who have been serving to restore security and stability to south Lebanon during a difficult time,” said UNIFIL in a statement. “Attacks on peacekeepers are flagrant violations of international law and may amount to war crimes. We demand a full and immediate investigation by Lebanese authorities and for all perpetrators to be brought to justice.”
On Saturday, Lebanese Interior Minister Ahmad al-Hajjar announced that the Lebanese army intelligence has arrested more than 25 individuals, with one person detained. “This does not mean these detainees carried out the attack… but the investigations will show who is responsible,” he told reporters.
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun pledged that “the attackers will receive their punishment,” stressing that “security forces will not be lenient with any party that tries to upset stability and civil peace.”
