The United Nations Worries The Escalation Of Conflicts After The Murder Of Hamas Figures

DOC UN

JAKARTA - The United Nations peacekeeping force in Lebanon (UNFIL) voiced deep concern over the possible increase in hostilities following the assassination of Hamas deputy head of political bureau Saleh al-Arouri in Beirut's capital on Tuesday night (2/1).

"This ecosystem can cause a lot of destruction to people on both sides of the Blue Line," UNFIL Deputy Spokesperson Kandice Ardiel told Lebanese official news agency NNA.

The Blue Line is a concrete wall founded by the United Nations in 2000 with the aim of confirming the withdrawal of Israeli troops from southern Lebanon.

"We continue to urge all parties to stop shooting, and we also appeal to all influential parties to encourage restraint," he said.

Arouri was killed in an Israeli drone strike in southern Beirut, according to Hamas and Lebanese media. Israel has not officially claimed responsibility.

Amid concerns over escalation, border clashes between Israeli forces and the Hezbollah group have continued since Israel's war with Hamas in Gaza on October 7, 2023.