In a recent incident, four individuals have been wounded after a shell exploded near a United Nations (UN) patrol in southern Lebanon, according to the UN peacekeeping mission. Earlier reports suggested that an Israeli strike had hit a vehicle carrying UN observers near the border town of Rmeish. However, the Israeli military has denied these claims, stating that it did not strike a UNIFIL (UN Interim Force in Lebanon) vehicle in the area.

UNIFIL confirmed that three military observers and one Lebanese translator were injured while on a foot patrol along the Blue Line, which acts as a border dividing Lebanon and Israel. They were quickly evacuated for medical treatment, and investigations are underway to determine the source of the explosion.

Highlighting the importance of protecting non-combatants, including peacekeepers, journalists, medical personnel, and civilians, UNIFIL stressed the significance of ensuring the safety and security of UN personnel. The mission called on all actors involved to cease the current heavy exchanges of fire to prevent further harm.

Lebanon's caretaker Prime Minister, Najib Mikati, expressed his condemnation of the "targeting" and injury to UN staff members. He held a conversation with UNIFIL commander Aroldo Lozaro, reaffirming the country's commitment to the security of UN personnel.

Among the injured observers was a Norwegian citizen who suffered minor injuries, as confirmed by the country's defense ministry. Lebanon's National News Agency reported that the other two wounded observers were from Chile and Australia, respectively.

Tensions between Israel and the Iran-backed Hezbollah militant group in Lebanon have intensified since the beginning of the war between Israel and Hamas in October. The ongoing conflict has resulted in the deaths of nearly 270 Hezbollah fighters, along with approximately 50 civilians, including children, medics, and journalists. Both UNIFIL and the Lebanese army have been affected by Israeli shelling.

UNIFIL had previously reported in November that one of its patrols was targeted by Israeli gunfire in southern Lebanon, fortunately without any casualties. However, the recent surge in violence along the Blue Line has raised serious concerns among the peacekeeping mission, which called for an immediate end to the escalation. UNIFIL urged all parties involved to lay down their weapons and engage in the pursuit of a sustainable political and diplomatic solution.

The growing concerns of further escalation between Israel and Hezbollah have led to the displacement of tens of thousands of people on both sides. The situation remains tense, and international efforts are underway to find a peaceful resolution to the conflict and protect the civilian population from harm.