Tensions Rise: UN Peacekeepers Caught in Crossfire

Israeli troops reportedly opened fire on U.N. peacekeeper positions in southern Lebanon, affecting sites including UNIFIL's main base in Naqoura. Hezbollah claimed responsibility for attacking Israeli forces in the area. UNIFIL expressed concerns over Israeli military activities endangering peacekeepers' safety, highlighting increasing tensions near peacekeeper positions.

Israeli troops have reportedly targeted U.N. peacekeeper positions in southern Lebanon, as confirmed by a U.N. source. The attacks included UNIFIL's main base at Naqoura, heightening tensions in the region. Official statements from UNIFIL or the Israeli military are yet to be released.

Earlier, Hezbollah claimed that it had fired guided missiles at an advancing Israeli tank near the border area of Ras al-Naqoura and launched a missile salvo on Israeli forces attempting to evacuate injured soldiers. These actions follow Sunday's UNIFIL statement expressing concern over Israeli military activities near peacekeeper posts.

In a letter dated Oct. 3, UNIFIL criticized the proximity of Israeli military vehicles and troops to U.N. positions, citing risk to the safety and security of its personnel and facilities. The situation underscores growing tensions and the precarious safety of peacekeepers mandated by the U.N. Security Council.

(With inputs from agencies.)