IDF accused of hurling grenades near UNIFIL observers and Lebanese troops

The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon says the IDF threw grenades near its forces and Lebanese soldiers who were operating in southern Lebanon yesterday.

The UNIFIL and Lebanese troops were providing for civilian workers in the village of Maroun ar-Ras who were trying to clear the ruins of homes destroyed during the war.

“Around 11:30 am, [observer forces] at two different sites heard a grenade explode near an excavator, about 500 meters away from them,” the statement from UNIFIL says.

“Moments later, the first group saw a drone fly overhead and witnessed an explosion about 30-40 meters away. About 20 minutes after that, the second group saw another drone drop a grenade that exploded just 20 meters over their heads.”

“UNIFIL had informed the IDF about the activity in advance and immediately demanded that the firing stop.”

“Fortunately, no one was injured, and the works eventually continued,” UNIFIL says, condemning the Israeli conduct and asserting that it amounts to a violation of Security Council resolution 1701.

“We call on the IDF to cease attacks on or near [observer forces], civilians, and Lebanese soldiers and allow us to carry out our mandated tasks without obstruction,” UNIFIL says.

There was no immediate comment from the IDF.