UNIFIL said the incident occurred in Al-Aqbieh, “just outside” the mission’s area of operations in southern Lebanon.
Established in 1978, shortly after Israel withdrew from Lebanon, the mission monitors the cessation of hostilities along the Lebanese-Israeli border following the 2006 conflict and ensures humanitarian access to reach civilians in need.
sympathy
The mission offered its deepest condolences to the friends, family and colleagues of the late peacekeeper and said all were hopeful “for a full and speedy recovery of those injured.”
Our thoughts are also with the local civilians who may have been injured or frightened in the incident,” the statement continued. “Right now, details are sparse and conflicting.”
investigation initiated
The mission said it had begun coordinating with the Lebanese Armed Forces on the matter and immediately launched an investigation.
According to news reports and details released by Irish Government ministers, a hostile crowd surrounded the armored vehicle carrying peacekeepers to the Lebanese capital of Beirut.
Another injured Irish member of the contingent is in critical condition.
The surrounded vehicle was accidentally separated from another passenger in the convoy, according to reports.
The UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres also expressed his deep sadness at the death of the Peacekeeper, in a statement issued from his spokesman.
“The Secretary-General sends his deepest condolences to the family of the late peacekeeper and to the people and government of Ireland.
“Accountability”: UN chief
“He wishes the injured a full and speedy recovery. He calls for a swift investigation by the relevant authorities to establish the facts surrounding the incident and the need for accountability.”
Mr. Guterres said he had the deepest appreciation for all who serve at UNIFIL, recalling “the importance of ensuring their safety and UNIFIL’s freedom of movement.”
UN Special Coordinator Joanna Wronecka tweeted her condolences, saying that “a prompt and thorough investigation to establish the facts of this tragic incident is vital.”
