WASHINGTON

The UN on Thursday described the security situation in southern Lebanon as “concerning and bleak,” citing ongoing hostilities that continue to endanger peacekeepers.

“Meanwhile, the picture on the ground remains concerning and bleak,” Stephane Dujarric told reporters.

Dujarric said the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) reports continued rocket fire toward Israel, alongside airstrikes and artillery shelling impacting several locations in southern Lebanon, originating from Israel.

“The Israeli Defense Forces have expanded their incursions into area towards the West ... The hostilities continue to endanger the peacekeepers,” he said.

On Thursday morning, one peacekeeper was wounded in the shoulder by a bullet at a UN position near Mais al-Jabal in Sector East, he added.

“UNIFIL immediately issued a stop fire request. The peacekeepers received treatment at the position's own medical facility. The falling bullet likely originated from clashes between Hezbollah and Israeli Defense Forces in that area.”

The UN reminded all parties to avoid any actions that could further endanger peacekeepers’ lives, he said.