India Calls for Protection of UN Peacekeepers in Lebanon

• 12 Mar 2026

On 11th March 2026, India joined 29 other countries in urging all parties involved in the Israel–Hezbollah confrontation to ensure the safety and security of UN peacekeepers deployed in Lebanon.

Key Points

• Joint International Statement: India and 29 other countries issued a joint statement calling for the protection of personnel and premises of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) amid escalating tensions.
• Protection of Peacekeepers: The statement emphasised that peacekeepers must never be targets of attacks or intimidation and urged all parties to respect international law.
• Indian Contingent: India currently has 642 peacekeepers serving in UNIFIL, making it the second-largest contingent in the mission’s total strength of 7,438 personnel.
• UNIFIL Mandate: Established in 1978, UNIFIL is tasked with monitoring the cessation of hostilities between Israel and Lebanon and assisting the Lebanese government in restoring authority in southern Lebanon.
• Accountability Demand: The joint statement condemned the attack and called for those responsible to be held accountable.
• Escalating Conflict: The tensions follow increased confrontation between Israel and Hezbollah, linked to the wider fallout from the Iran war.