UNIFIL deputy commander Dhakal injured after convoy attacked in Beirut

Firefighters extinguish a burning UNIFIL vehicle, set ablaze by protesters, on the road leading to Beirut's international airport on February 14, 2025. (Photo by IBRAHIM AMRO / AFP)

Kathmandu, February 15 — Major General Chok Bahadur Dhakal of Nepal Army was injured in an attack by a mob of protesters on Nepali peacekeepers deployed for peacekeeping efforts in Lebanon under the United Nations' mandate.

Dhaka was serving as deputy force commander of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL).

The incident occurred around midnight on Friday near Beirut, when the convoy carrying Dhakal was stopped and vandalized by an agitated crowd, resulting in his injury.

Following the attack, he was immediately rescued and transported to Beirut for medical treatment, with the hospital reporting that his condition is stable and out of danger, as confirmed by the Directorate of Public Relations and Information of the Nepal Army.

Major General Dhakal was returning to Nepal after completing his mission.

The UNIFIL Mission Headquarters issued a press release expressing shock over the attack on peacekeepers serving to establish security and stability in southern Lebanon.

The United Nations condemned the attack and urged the Lebanese government to conduct a prompt investigation and take necessary actions. 

In response to the incident, Lebanon's Prime Minister and the Lebanese Armed Forces have condemned the attack and promised to investigate and hold the individuals and groups responsible accountable.