A dangerous incident occurred in southern Lebanon, where Spanish soldiers are participating in a UN peacekeeping mission. During a morning patrol, the group of Spanish troops came under heavy fire from an Israeli tank. Despite the nearby explosions, none of the soldiers were injured — they managed to take cover and wait out the shelling.
Immediately after the incident, the Spanish government lodged an official protest, and the United Nations issued a strong condemnation. In its statement, the UN emphasized that such actions constitute a grave violation of international agreements and could lead to tragic consequences. The Israeli side, in turn, attributed the incident to unfavorable weather conditions, which allegedly caused the patrol to be mistaken for a threat. Nonetheless, the investigation is ongoing, and Spanish troops remain at their posts.
Tensions escalate in southern Lebanon
In recent months, tensions in the region have noticeably increased. Israeli forces regularly conduct operations on Lebanese territory, drawing criticism from local authorities and international observers. The Lebanese army has repeatedly accused Israel of violating the ceasefire and creating additional risks for peacekeepers. Currently, about 10,000 UN troops are stationed in southern Lebanon, nearly 700 of whom are Spanish citizens.
On the same day as the attack on the Spanish peacekeepers, Israeli forces killed a school principal in a nearby village, claiming he was linked to armed groups. These incidents have only heightened international concerns about regional stability.
The mission’s future and Spain’s position
The mandate of the UN peacekeeping mission in Lebanon is limited—by the end of 2026, control over the southern regions is to be fully handed over to the Lebanese Armed Forces. However, ongoing clashes and Israeli shelling are making this task increasingly difficult. Spain, as one of the nations actively involved in peacekeeping efforts, is demanding that all parties honor agreements and guarantee the safety of its military personnel.
The incident involving the shelling of Spanish soldiers is yet another reminder of how fragile peace remains in the Middle East. As both sides trade accusations over the escalation, the fate of peacekeepers and local residents hangs in the balance. Spanish society is closely following the situation, expecting strong action from the authorities to protect its citizens abroad.
