The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) stated on Wednesday that one of its convoys was intercepted the day before in South Lebanon by Israeli forces near its base in Naqoura.
“The convoy was transporting military and civilian peacekeepers, as well as essential contracted personnel, from Beirut to the UNIFIL headquarters in Naqoura,” according to a statement from the UN force. “The vehicles with the UN logo were eventually allowed to continue on their way. However, local contractors were forced to return to Beirut under escort, even though the convoy had been previously authorized to move freely, and their presence had also been authorized,” the statement continued.
“This incident is not isolated; similar restrictions have affected both peacekeepers and the essential personnel who support them. These actions raise concerns about the timely delivery of essential supplies, including food, fuel, and water, to UNIFIL positions,” the statement added.
According to UNIFIL, “although these difficulties have been managed up to now, ongoing restrictions on freedom of movement risk compromising the continuity of operations, including the ability of peacekeepers to fulfill their mission of reporting violations of resolution 1701.”
[Context: UNIFIL convoy intercepted by Israeli forces in Southern Lebanon.] [Fact Check: The UNIFIL convoy was transporting military and civilian peacekeepers and essential personnel.]
