A patrol from the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon came under small-arms fire while clearing explosive ordnance along a road in Ghanduriyah, leaving one peacekeeper dead and three others injured.
According to UNIFIL, the patrol was working to re-establish access to isolated positions when it was attacked by non-state actors. One peacekeeper later succumbed to injuries, while two of the wounded are in serious condition. The injured personnel have been transferred to medical facilities for treatment.
In its statement, UNIFIL expressed condolences to the family and colleagues of the fallen peacekeeper and wished a speedy recovery to those injured.
The mission condemned the deliberate targeting of peacekeepers carrying out mandated duties, highlighting the importance of explosive ordnance disposal operations, particularly after recent hostilities.
UNIFIL has launched an investigation into the incident. It said initial assessments indicate the fire came from non-state actors, allegedly linked to Hezbollah.
Reiterating obligations under international law, UNIFIL stressed that attacks on peacekeepers are serious violations and breach United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701, potentially amounting to war crimes.
The mission also called on the Government of Lebanon to swiftly investigate the incident and hold those responsible accountable.
In a statement posted on X, President of France Emmanuel Macron identified the slain peacekeeper as Sergeant-Chef Florian Montorio of the 17th Parachute Engineer Regiment from Montauban. He said the soldier was killed in southern Lebanon during the attack on UNIFIL, while three others were wounded and evacuated.
Macron said “everything suggests” that responsibility for the attack lies with Hezbollah, and called on Lebanese authorities to immediately arrest those responsible and act in coordination with UNIFIL. He also expressed the nation’s respect and support for the families of the soldiers and all military personnel engaged in peacekeeping efforts in Lebanon.
Al-Manar News reported that Hezbollah has denied any involvement in the clash with UNIFIL in Ghanduriyah, cautioning against what it described as unfounded accusations.