UN probe shows roadside blast killed 2 UNIFIL troops; IDF: Hezbollah planted bombs

Key Points:

• Two Indonesian UN peacekeepers were killed in southern Lebanon by a roadside explosion, with initial investigations suggesting the blast was caused by bombs likely placed by Hezbollah, according to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).
• Another Indonesian peacekeeper was killed earlier by Israeli fire, with debris from a tank round recovered at the site, while the IDF denies placing explosives or being present during the roadside blast incident.
• The UN peacekeeping chief condemned the killings as grave violations of international law, calling for accountability, while Indonesia and several countries urged all parties to ensure the safety of UNIFIL personnel amid escalating conflict.
• The US and European nations highlighted the risks to UNIFIL peacekeepers and called for renewed international efforts to support Lebanese state institutions and reduce hostilities, noting the force’s planned withdrawal by 2027.
• Israel criticized UNIFIL’s effectiveness in preventing Hezbollah’s military buildup near its border, emphasizing that the peacekeeping force has long struggled to fulfill its mandate.