UN Calls for Restraint Amid Escalating Hezbollah-Israel Clashes

The UN Security Council demanded a halt to escalating attacks between Hezbollah militants and Israeli forces, warning of potential widespread conflict. The council extended the mandate of UNIFIL in Lebanon for another year. Both sides accuse the peacekeepers of bias. Recent clashes resulted in injuries to peacekeepers.

The UN Security Council unanimously demanded an end to the escalating violence between Lebanon's Hezbollah militants and Israeli forces, cautioning that further escalation could lead to widespread conflict.

The resolution extends the mandate of UNIFIL, the UN peacekeeping force in Lebanon, for another year, a force in place since 1978 following Israel's invasion of southern Lebanon.

UNIFIL's role expanded after the 2006 war between Israel and Hezbollah, allowing peacekeepers to aid the Lebanese military in asserting control over the southern region. However, both Hezbollah and Israel frequently accuse the mission of bias, complicating its efforts. Recent clashes have seen UNIFIL personnel injured by explosions and shelling, highlighting the continuing volatility in the area.

(With inputs from agencies.)