Spain demands an end to Israeli attacks on peacekeepers in Lebanon amid rising violence.

The recent increase in violence in Lebanon has led Spain to demand an immediate halt to Israeli attacks on the UN peacekeepers' headquarters located in Naqura. This call comes amid a backdrop of growing tension in the region, where Israeli forces have intensified their operations, resulting in injuries among peacekeeping personnel. The Spanish government, through an official statement, has reiterated its strong condemnation of these attacks and urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to comply with the obligations of International Humanitarian Law, as well as with UN Security Council Resolution 1701.

The recent attacks have left at least two peacekeepers injured, although fortunately none of the Spanish soldiers in the mission have been affected. This is the second attack in less than 48 hours on the headquarters of the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), raising growing international concern. The President of the Spanish Government, Pedro Sánchez, has been clear in his condemnation following a meeting with the Pope, stating that these acts are "absolutely condemnable" and reflect the urgent need to end the spiral of violence affecting both Lebanon and Gaza and the West Bank.

The Spanish Minister of Foreign Affairs, José Manuel Albares, has taken diplomatic measures by summoning the Israeli chargé d'affaires in Spain to express the Spanish government's protest. This official is currently the highest representative of Israel in the country, following the withdrawal of the Israeli ambassador in response to Spain's stance on the recognition of Palestine.

This episode has not only provoked Spain's indignation but has also generated a similar reaction from France and Italy, whose leaders have described the attacks as "unjustifiable" and a "serious violation" of International Humanitarian Law. The UN mission in Lebanon, which has existed since 1978, was established in an attempt to ensure peace and security in a region that has historically been vulnerable to conflict.

The international community observes with concern that attacks on UN peacekeeping operations are considered a "serious violation" of international norms. In recent days, the Spanish government has insisted on the need to ensure the safety of UN troops, a central aspect in its communications with Israeli authorities.

During the XI Summit of Mediterranean countries, French President Emmanuel Macron emphasized that while efforts are being made to ensure the security of Lebanon and Israel, the troops deployed in the country are being targeted, further complicating the situation. France, which also has personnel in the UNIFIL mission, has aligned itself with Spain and Italy in condemning the Israeli attacks.

The Italian Minister of Defense echoed these concerns, highlighting the importance of respecting the international contingents present in Lebanon and expressing worries about the future of these missions if aggression continues. The interventions of these leaders reflect a clear consensus on the need for Israel to respect international regulations and the sovereignty of a country that has suffered greatly from war and violence.

The situation in Lebanon is a reminder of the persistent challenges in the region, where efforts to achieve a peaceful resolution seem further away than ever. Spain's intervention, along with that of other European countries, aims not only to protect its soldiers but also to contribute to a constructive dialogue that can prevent further deterioration of peace in the area.

It is essential for the international community to act united to curb this escalation of violence and seek diplomatic solutions. The protection of UN peacekeeping missions is crucial not only for the stability of Lebanon but also for peace throughout the Middle East region. The hope is that through dialogue and cooperation, this cycle of violence can be ended and the door opened to a more peaceful future.