India on Friday expressed concern over the deteriorating security situation in southern Lebanon : MEA

The MEA further emphasized that all must respect the inviolability of the UN premises.  India on Friday expressed concern over the deteriorating security situation in southern Lebanon following reports of injuries to United Nations peacekeepers in an Israeli attack.

"The Israeli bombardment targeted watchtowers and the main UNIFIL base in Ras Nakura and the base of a Sri Lankan battalion, the Lebanese Foreign Ministry said on Friday, injuring several people.

More than 900 Indian soldiers are currently serving in the United Nations Interim Force in South Lebanon (UNIFIL).  UNIF comprises 10,500 peacekeepers from 50 contributing countries, including India. Seventeen percent of its operations are conducted in cooperation with the Lebanese Armed Forces. The mission is also supported by a five-ship Maritime Task Force.

Established in 1978 pursuant to UN Security Council Resolutions 425 and 426, UNIFIL oversaw the withdrawal of Israeli forces from southern Lebanon, the restoration of international peace and security, and the restoration of the Lebanese government's authority over the region.

"All must respect the inviolability of UN premises and take appropriate measures to ensure the safety of UN peacekeepers and the sanctity of their mandate," the statement added.

The MEA's statement came after Lebanon condemned an Israeli attack that reportedly injured UN peacekeepers in the southern part of the country.

In 2006, following the deadly conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, UN Security Council Resolution 1701 mandated UNIFIL to monitor the cessation of hostilities and support the Lebanese Armed Forces deployed throughout the south, including along the Blue Line.