Marjayoun: A UNIFIL peacekeeper was killed and two others injured when mortar shells hit their position near Marjayoun in southeastern Lebanon. The incident occurred late last night, and UNIFIL confirmed the loss in a statement issued on Thursday. The critically injured peacekeeper was transported to a hospital in Beirut, where he succumbed to his injuries.

According to National News Agency - Lebanon, the two other peacekeepers who sustained injuries are currently receiving medical treatment at a UNIFIL base. The organization expressed its deepest condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of the deceased and hoped for a full recovery of the injured peacekeepers.

UNIFIL has initiated an investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the tragic incident. The organization has reported a significant increase in trajectories and impacts in South Lebanon and emphasized the urgent need for the violence to cease. UNIFIL has urged all parties to comply with international law and ensure the safety of UN personnel and property. They also called for national authorities to investigate the incident, prosecute the perpetrators, and ensure accountability.

The statement highlighted that deliberate attacks on peacekeepers are severe breaches of international humanitarian law and Security Council Resolution 1701, potentially constituting war crimes.