A U.N. investigation into the tragic incident on October 13 last year, where Reuters reporter Issam Abdallah was killed by an Israeli tank in Lebanon, has revealed several violations of international law. The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) conducted the investigation and summarized its findings in a report, shedding light on the events leading to the journalist’s death.
The report highlighted that an Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) Merkava tank fired two 120 mm rounds at a group of journalists who were clearly identifiable, resulting in the death of Mr. Issam Abdallah and injuring six others. Notably, there was no recorded exchange of fire across the Blue Line between Israel and Lebanon for over 40 minutes prior to the incident, which is a violation of Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 1701.
Conclusions drawn from the report emphasized that the firing at civilians, particularly identifiable journalists, constitutes a breach of UNSCR 1701 and international law. Furthermore, the exchange of fire preceding the attack on the journalists also violates UNSCR 1701, indicating the presence of armed personnel or assets contrary to the resolution’s provisions.
Based on these findings, the report put forth several recommendations to prevent similar incidents in the future and ensure compliance with international law. The recommendations include urging the IDF to refrain from firing on civilians, conducting a thorough investigation into the incident, and enhancing coordination with UNIFIL. Similarly, the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) are advised to take appropriate measures to prevent the presence of armed personnel or assets in the designated area between the Blue Line and the Litani river and to facilitate cooperation with UNIFIL for monitoring purposes.
