KATHMANDU, OCTOBER 15

Nepal has strongly condemned the recent attacks on UNIFIL peacekeepers and called on the conflicting parties to ensure the safety and security of peacekeepers.

'These actions must cease immediately and be thoroughly investigated,' the Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated in a joint declaration with 34 UNIFIL-contributing nations, made public today through its official X (formerly Twitter) platform.

'As contributors to the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon, we reaffirm our unwavering support for UNIFIL's mission and activities, aimed at fostering stabilization and lasting peace in South Lebanon and the broader Middle East, in line with relevant UN Security Council resolutions,' the statement said, co-signed by countries such as Armenia, Austria, Bangladesh, Fiji, Sierra Leone, Sri Lanka, and the United Kingdom, among others.

The 34 nations underscored the critical role of UNIFIL amid the escalating regional tensions and strongly condemned the recent attacks on peacekeepers. They urged for the protection of UN peacekeepers at all times, enabling them to carry out their mandate of mediation and support for peace and stability in Lebanon and the region.

The statement concluded by emphasizing, 'We reaffirm our commitment to multilateral cooperation, with the UN at its core, and call for respect for international law, particularly the UN Charter and relevant Security Council resolutions.'