The United States has strongly condemned a violent attack on a United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) convoy in Beirut, which left several peacekeepers injured, including the mission’s outgoing deputy commander.
The attack, reportedly carried out by supporters of the militant group Hizballah, has drawn widespread international condemnation and calls for accountability.
The incident occurred Friday when a UNIFIL convoy transporting peacekeepers to Beirut International Airport was ambushed by a group of young men carrying yellow flags, widely associated with Hizballah.
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Videos shared on social media show one UN vehicle set ablaze while attackers chased and assaulted peacekeepers attempting to flee the scene. Additional footage depicts a mob kicking, hitting, and climbing onto UN vehicles as they attempted to navigate a dark road.
UNIFIL confirmed that its deputy commander, who was returning home after completing his mission, was among those injured in the attack. The peacekeeping force described the assault as “outrageous” and demanded a “full and immediate” investigation by Lebanese authorities.
In a statement, Department of State Spokesperson Tammy Bruce expressed the United States’ condemnation of the attack and its support for the injured peacekeepers.
“The United States condemns the violent attack on a UNIFIL convoy in Beirut, Lebanon, reportedly by a group of Hizballah supporters,” Bruce said. “We commend the swift response of the Lebanese Armed Forces to prevent further violence, and the Lebanese government’s commitment to take all necessary measures to hold individuals accountable for their actions. We extend our wishes for a swift recovery to all those affected.”
The U.S. called for a thorough investigation and urged Lebanese authorities to bring the perpetrators to justice.
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