U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin raised alarm bells this weekend over reports of Israeli forces firing near United Nations peacekeeper positions in Lebanon. In a tense call with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, Austin stressed the need to protect UN staff and transition to diplomacy "as soon as feasible."
🔥 Rising Tensions on the Border
UN peacekeeping mission UNIFIL reported five injuries this week, including two Sri Lankan soldiers caught in crossfire. Israel claimed its troops were responding to an "immediate threat" they linked to Hezbollah. Meanwhile, Lebanon accused Israel of killing two soldiers in a separate strike.
🕊️ Diplomatic Push vs Escalating Violence
Austin emphasized America's "ironclad commitment" to Israel's security but urged steps to address Gaza's humanitarian crisis. The clashes come as Israel ramps up airstrikes near Beirut and ground operations targeting Hezbollah—raising fears of a broader conflict.
With UN forces caught in the middle, the international community watches closely. As one X user put it: "Peacekeepers shouldn't need kevlar for their peace missions." 🌐💬
