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The Day · Friday 12 December 2025

Filed 13:34 · Palestine time (UTC+2) · World

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UNIFIL Reports Israeli Tank Fires on UN Patrol Inside Lebanese Territory

UNIFIL has reported that an Israeli tank opened fire toward a UN patrol operating inside Lebanese territory. The incident marks a serious development on the border area. UNIFIL has not shared further details, and no clarifications have been issued regarding the circumstances of the firing. The situation remains tense.

NABATIEH, LEBANON – FEBRUARY 01: The United Nations Interim Peacekeeping Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) forces and the Lebanese army deployed in Nabatieh after the ceasefire agreement signed between Lebanon and Israel, in Lebanon on February 01, 2025. According to the ceasefire agreement signed between Lebanon and Israel on November 27, 2024, the Israeli army was supposed to withdraw from the areas it occupied in southern Lebanon within 60 days. Despite the ceasefire agreement with Lebanon, Israel has not withdrawn from the south and responds to the people’s demand for return with attacks. ( Houssam Shbaro – Anadolu Agency )

UNIFIL has stated that an Israeli tank fired towards a UN patrol operating inside Lebanese territory. The event was reported without the release of further details, and no clarification was immediately available regarding the motives or consequences of the tank fire. The patrol was part of UNIFIL operations within Lebanon, and the firing originated from Israeli military positions.

According to the brief statement from UNIFIL, an Israeli tank directed its fire towards the UN unit without prior engagement details being disclosed. The attack took place within recognized Lebanese boundaries, according to the UN body’s statement. No information was provided on whether the fire resulted in casualties or damage to UN property.

This development unfolds amid continued volatility in the zone separating Israeli positions and Lebanese territory, where UNIFIL regularly conducts patrols. The firing has drawn concern within peacekeeping circles, given that UN personnel operate under international mandates and are expected to receive protection in their designated areas of operation.

Meanwhile, there has been no official statement from the Israeli side addressing the reported tank fire. The absence of comment intensifies the need for clarity surrounding the circumstances of this event. UNIFIL has not indicated whether it will launch a formal investigation into the matter.

The patrol unit, whose route was inside Lebanese territory according to initial reports, was engaged in its routine duties when the Israeli tank fire occurred. UNIFIL’s mandate includes monitoring the cessation of hostilities and supporting the Lebanese Armed Forces in southern Lebanon.

The incident raises questions about the safety of peacekeeping forces operating close to high-tension zones. From its side, UNIFIL has not provided any timeline for an official response or whether the matter has been brought before higher international authorities. The identity of the unit fired upon and the exact location within Lebanese territory remain undisclosed.

In addition, the reported action by the Israeli tank poses significant implications for rules of military engagement in proximity to UN operations. It underscores the fragile security environment in contested areas and the high risks peacekeeping personnel continue to face.

No other related events have been reported at this time, and the size of the patrol group or type of vehicle involved has not been confirmed. UNIFIL has not released imagery or audio recordings from the scene. Similarly, responses from Lebanese authorities have not been included in the UNIFIL announcement.

This latest development is expected to prompt further scrutiny of interactions between Israeli forces and UN personnel in southern Lebanon. Observers will be watching closely for any follow-up communications from both sides. Until then, the circumstances of the Israeli tank fire toward the UN patrol, while officially acknowledged by UNIFIL, remain without elaboration.

12 Dec, 13:34

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