A Ghanaian soldier Lebanon attack victim who sustained severe injuries during a recent assault on a peacekeeping base in southern Lebanon has successfully undergone surgery and is currently recovering, according to Deputy Defence Minister Ernest Brogya Genfi.
Providing an update on the condition of Ghanaian troops serving under the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), Mr. Brogya Genfi said the injured soldier was evacuated to Beirut for emergency medical treatment after suffering serious wounds to both legs and the hip.
He explained that the surgery, performed on the morning of Saturday, March 7, was successful and the soldier is now stable and recuperating under medical supervision.
The Deputy Defence Minister also disclosed that four additional Ghanaian soldiers who sustained minor injuries during the incident are responding well to treatment. According to him, all four remain in stable condition and are recovering steadily.
Troops suffer personal losses after fire outbreak
Beyond the physical injuries sustained during the attack, several peacekeepers also suffered personal losses when a fire broke out at their accommodation facility.
Mr. Brogya Genfi revealed that the blaze destroyed the personal belongings of several soldiers stationed at the base.
“Unfortunately, 15 officers lost all personal effects due to a fire outbreak at their accommodation,” he stated in a Facebook update.
International support and diplomatic response
Following the incident, the Deputy Defence Minister acknowledged international expressions of solidarity, particularly from France. He noted that France’s Minister Delegate to the Minister of Armed Forces and Veterans Affairs, Alice Rufo, held a telephone conversation with him to express support for Ghana.
He added that France has also raised concerns about the attack at the United Nations, pointing out that French peacekeepers are likewise deployed in Lebanon.
Meanwhile, the Government of Ghana has lodged a formal complaint at the United Nations headquarters, urging all parties involved in the conflict to respect the neutrality and safety of peacekeepers operating within the mission area.
Mr. Brogya Genfi reiterated that Ghana remains committed to ensuring the protection and welfare of its troops serving under the UN flag.
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