In southern Lebanon, a clash occurred between the Israeli armed forces and the UN peacekeeping force (UNIFIL). The cause of the conflict was Israel's demand that peacekeepers retreat five kilometers north of the border between Israel and Lebanon to ensure the safety of residents in northern Israel returning to their homes.
UNIFIL forces refused to comply with this demand, which led to an escalation of the situation. The incident worsened after Israeli tanks were stationed near the peacekeepers' post, causing concern among the latter. Tensions also increased due to the intransigence of 347 Irish soldiers in the battle area, who refused to evacuate when asked by the Israeli military.
Strong statements were exchanged between the Israeli embassy in Dublin and the President of Ireland, Michael Higgins. Higgins condemned Israeli demands to evacuate Irish soldiers as a threat to peacekeepers and a violation of the UN mandate. The IDF continues operations in southern Lebanon, bringing in new forces and launching a new operation.