Lebanon/ UNIFIL: Attack - Statement by Alain Juppé, Minister of Foreign and European Affairs

Paris, 26 July 2011

I condemn in the strongest possible terms this afternoon’s attack on UNIFIL, in which six French peacekeepers were wounded south of Saida in South Lebanon.

My thoughts go out to the families of the soldiers.

France demands an investigation into this attack. We urge the Lebanese authorities to do everything possible to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.

We will not tolerate attacks on the security of military personnel deployed in UN peacekeeping operations under Security Council Resolutions 1701 and 1973, and serving at the request of the Lebanese government.

We reiterate that the security and freedom of movement of UNIFIL soldiers must be guaranteed.

France reiterates its commitment to Lebanon’s security, stability, independence and sovereignty.