UN Military Observers Wounded in Southern Lebanon Border Explosion

On Saturday, an explosion near the southern Lebanese border wounded three United Nations military observers and a Lebanese interpreter. The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) reported that the military observers, who are part of the United Nations Truce Supervision Organization, sustained injuries while patrolling the area.

Stable Conditions and Warring Parties

UNIFIL spokesperson Andrea Tenenti assured that the wounded individuals were in stable condition. It was revealed that the three military observers from Chile, Australia, and Norway were unarmed at the time of the incident.

Clashes between the Israeli military and Hezbollah militants in recent weeks have raised concerns. The ongoing exchange of fire has sparked worries that the conflicts along the border may escalate into a full-scale war, following the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza.

Investigation and Denial

UNIFIL is currently investigating the source of the explosion. However, due to the continuous exchange of fire, placing investigators on the ground immediately has proven to be challenging.

Contrary to reports, the Israeli military denied targeting the observers in the southern village of Wadi Katmoun near the border town of Rmeich. The IDF took to social media to refute the claims.

Appeal for Ceasefire

Tenenti emphasized that the targeting of peacekeepers is unacceptable. He called for all parties involved to cease the heavy exchanges of fire to prevent further harm to innocent people.

Lebanese caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikat condemned the incident, expressing his disapproval in a public statement.