DUBAI, UAE - Iraq’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Saturday strongly condemned an Israeli attack on the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), which left at least two members of the peacekeeping mission injured.

In a statement, the ministry called the incident a “blatant violation of international humanitarian law” and warned that it undermines global efforts to secure peace and stability in the region. Iraq also stressed the need for full protection of peacekeepers, particularly given the current challenges on the ground.

The ministry urged an immediate ceasefire and called on the international community to uphold its responsibilities, ensuring respect for international law and safeguarding UN peacekeepers. It reaffirmed Iraq’s solidarity with Lebanon in the face of continued aggression, which has targeted civilians and vital infrastructure.

On Friday, the Israeli military confirmed that two UN peacekeepers were injured in an Israeli airstrike near their observation post in southern Lebanon. Explosions also rocked UNIFIL’s main base in the region for the second time in 48 hours, amid ongoing clashes between Israeli forces and Hezbollah.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and several Western nations condemned the attacks. In a statement, UNIFIL called the situation a “serious development” and emphasized the need to ensure the security of its personnel and assets.

France summoned the Israeli ambassador in response to the incident. US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin said he urged his Israeli counterpart Yoav Gallant to ensure the safety of UNIFIL personnel in Lebanon.

Russia expressed its outrage over the attacks and demanded that Israel refrain from “hostile actions” against peacekeeping forces.