Three United Nations peacekeepers were lightly injured on Sunday when an explosion occurred near their vehicle in southern Lebanon, close to the border with Israel.
The incident took place in the village of Habib Brohi, near Pir Jo Goth, amid ongoing clashes between the Hezbollah militant group and Israeli forces.
According to UNIFIL spokesperson Andrea Tenenti, the peacekeepers were on patrol when the explosion happened. Two of the children died on arrival at the local hospital, and four more passed away the next morning, bringing the total death toll to six.
The remaining peacekeepers were reported to be safe, though several were injured. The UN is investigating the incident, and all parties involved have been reminded of their responsibility to avoid harming peacekeepers and civilians.
Local media initially speculated that the explosion was caused by an Israeli strike, but there was no confirmation of this from UNIFIL. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has stated they are reviewing the situation. This incident marks the second time in recent months that UN peacekeeping forces have been injured in southern Lebanon, following a similar incident in March.
On the same day, 20 rockets were fired from Lebanon into northern Israel, targeting the Kiryat Shmona area. The IDF intercepted some of the rockets, and there were no reported injuries.
In retaliation, the IDF conducted a series of strikes on Hezbollah sites in southern Lebanon, including drone strikes and attacks on weapons depots.
Amid escalating tensions, Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty has urged Hezbollah to exercise restraint to avoid jeopardizing ceasefire negotiations in Gaza.
He also promised increased humanitarian aid to Gaza and potential support from the United States on related issues.
In Lebanon, concerns about a possible escalation have led to preparations for potential shortages. The National Emergency Committee has ensured that food and medical supplies are sufficient for the near term, while rental prices have surged due to the influx of displaced individuals.
Over 102,000 people have fled the border region in Lebanon, with around 80,000 displaced in northern Israel.
