UN expresses concern over Beirut strike, calls for restraint

New Delhi, Jan 3: The United Nations peacekeeping mission in Lebanon, UNIFIL (United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon), has voiced concern over the potential escalation of tensions following a last evening strike in Beirut that claimed the life of a top Hamas leader. The strike targeted Saleh al-Arouri and six others in southern Beirut, an area associated with Hezbollah, though Israel has not claimed responsibility.

In response to the incident, Israel's military has declared a state of "high readiness for any scenario," emphasizing its preparedness in the aftermath of the assassination. Despite not confirming its involvement, Israel described the strike as a "surgical" one against Hamas.

The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, supported by Iran, has seen regular exchanges of fire since the Gaza conflict commenced in October. UNIFIL spokesperson Kandice Ardiel warns that a broader conflict could have severe repercussions for both Israel and Lebanon, urging all parties involved to exercise restraint.

Meanwhile, UNIFIL continues to fulfil its role of monitoring the Blue Line, the unofficial boundary between Lebanon and Israel. UNIFIL calls upon those with influence to advocate for restraint.

The situation in Gaza has also come under international scrutiny, with at least 22,000 people reported killed and 57,296 wounded in Israeli attacks since October 7.

Palestinian Authority Prime Minister Mohammad Shtayyeh highlights a dire humanitarian crisis, citing scenes of hunger, starvation, and weakened bodies. He accuses Israel of committing crimes by preventing the delivery of food to Gaza's population, particularly affecting children and infants.

Shtayyeh calls for urgent international intervention, urging the world to provide food assistance to Gaza through parachute drops and the opening of crossings. He expresses gratitude to South Africa for filing a case against Israel on charges of genocide at the International Court of Justice. Additionally, he voices opposition to the proposed waterway between Cyprus and Israel, fearing its potential misuse for deportation purposes.