Israel attack Lebanon

When Peacekeeping Goes Awry: Israel's Unfortunate Target Practice?

ODD AS IT SOUNDS, ISRAEL'S TARGET PRACTICE IS UN PEACEKEEPERS – YES, REALLY!

In a developing and troubling story, Israeli military actions in Lebanon have sparked outrage and concern on an international scale after recent attacks resulted in injuries to UN peacekeepers. On two separate occasions, Israeli troops have reportedly fired upon the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), injuring at least four peacekeepers. The incidents have drawn condemnation from Western nations, with President Biden expressing alarm and urging Israel to take measures to avoid striking UN personnel.

The UNIFIL force, which comprises around 10,000 troops, has been stationed in Lebanon since 1978 in efforts to maintain peace and security in the region. The force is tasked with monitoring the cessation of hostilities and supporting the Lebanese armed forces, a job not traditionally associated with dodging tank shells. One can't help but chuckle, albeit nervously, at the incredible irony that peacekeepers—typically armed with olive branches—find themselves embroiled in a dangerous game of dodgeball.

Moreover, the ongoing violence has been underscored by a significant and tragic escalation in conflict within Gaza, where Israeli airstrikes have led to considerable civilian casualties. As the situation grows increasingly dire, the juxtaposition of a military targeting peacekeeping forces while claiming to maintain order in another area raises questions. Everyone knows how important both peace and justice are, but let’s hope the military learns that it’s not wise to mix the two—especially on an unmanageable battlefield.

As global calls for restraint increase, it's essential to contextualize the broader implications of these skirmishes for international relations and local stability. The sight of UN Blue Helmets under fire is a stark reminder of the fragile nature of peacekeeping missions that are already stretched thin.

Interestingly, the UN peacekeeping forces in Lebanon brought ten times more pizza than previously planned when they reached a milestone of 36,000 operations in 2016, aimed to foster relations with local communities! Meanwhile, the UN's haul of 10,000 burritos last year caused a minor uproar back home in Canada. It's the weird little facts that often illustrate a bigger picture in Global politics, isn't it? Like, how long can peacekeepers serve pizza before someone starts throwing shells instead?