Lebanon – Death of a second French soldier in an attack on UNIFIL

France was deeply shocked to learn of the death this morning of Corporal Anicet Girardin after he was returned to France. Corporal Girardin died of the injuries he suffered in an attack against the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) which also claimed the life of Staff Sergeant Florian Montorio. France extends its most heartfelt condolences to his family, close friends and brothers in arms, and expresses its and profound sympathy to the two other French soldiers wounded in the attack.

France reiterates its utmost condemnation of this attack, carried out in all probability by Hezbollah fighters, and its demand that its perpetrators be identified, arrested and brought before the courts.

It pays tribute to the exemplary courage of Corporal Anicet Girardin, who died for France, and that of all our soldiers and contingents deployed within UNIFIL, who are working bravely and resolutely at the service of peace in Lebanon.  It recalls that UNIFIL must be fully able to exercise its mandate and its freedom of movement, in accordance with United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701. The Blue Helmets’ security and protection must be ensured by all the parties.

France reaffirms its commitment alongside the Lebanese State in its efforts to restore full sovereignty over the whole of Lebanese territory and consolidate its monopoly on weapons. It remains fully mobilized to support the perpetuation of the temporary ceasefire which came into force on 17 April and the lasting stabilization of Lebanon.