(MENAFN) UN peacekeeping forces operating in southern Lebanon have accused Israel of targeting one of their patrols, condemning the nation for its “aggressive behavior.”

Israel acknowledged the episode, stating that it was unintentional and caused by adverse weather conditions.

In a Sunday announcement, the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) reported that personnel from a Merkava tank were fired upon by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).

UNIFIL described the event as “a serious violation” of the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Lebanon that concluded the 2006 conflict, emphasizing that this was not an isolated incident.

“Yet again, we call on the IDF to cease any aggressive behavior and attacks on or near peacekeepers, who are working to support the return to the stability that both Israel and Lebanon say they seek.”

Israel confirmed that its troops had fired on UN personnel but insisted the action was accidental.

The IDF explained that soldiers had identified “two suspects” in the El Hamames region and discharged warning shots, after which the individuals withdrew without any injuries.

Following an investigation, the IDF clarified that the suspects “were UN soldiers who were conducting a patrol in the area and were classified as suspects due to poor weather conditions,” noting that “no deliberate fire was directed toward UNIFIL soldiers.”

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