UNIFIL Soldier Killed and Two Injured by Mortar Fire in Southern Lebanon

The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) issued the following statement:

A UNIFIL peacekeeper succumbed to serious injuries sustained from mortar shelling at a site near Marjayoun in southeastern Lebanon early this morning.

Two additional UNIFIL soldiers who were also wounded are receiving medical treatment at a UNIFIL base facility.

Shortly after the incident, which occurred late last night, the soldier with critical injuries was airlifted to a hospital in Beirut, where he later died from his wounds.

We extend our deepest condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of the fallen soldier. We also wish a swift and full recovery to the injured personnel. UNIFIL has launched an investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding this tragic event.

UNIFIL has observed a significant increase in the number of projectiles landing in southern Lebanon, and this violence must be stopped.

We reiterate our call to all parties to fulfill their obligations under international law and to ensure the safety and security of United Nations personnel and assets at all times, including refraining from any actions that may endanger peacekeepers. We also urge the relevant national authorities to investigate the incident, bring those responsible to justice, and ensure their criminal accountability.

Deliberate attacks on peacekeeping forces constitute serious violations of international humanitarian law and United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701, and may amount to war crimes.