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An explosion in southern Lebanon injured three United Nations military observers and a Lebanese translator on Saturday.

The incident occurred during a foot patrol along the contentious Blue Line, a demarcated boundary between Lebanon and Israel. The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) spokesperson, Andrea Tenenti, confirmed the incident, stating that an investigation into the explosion’s origin is underway. The injured were evacuated to receive medical treatment.

The affected personnel were part of the Observer Group Lebanon (OGL), operating under the United Nations Truce Supervision Organization (UNTSO). This organization plays a role in the Middle East by monitoring ceasefires, supervising armistice agreements, and aiding in preventing conflicts from escalating. According to UNTSO’s mandate, its military observers are unarmed and specialize in observing and reporting any violations related to ceasefires and disengagement in their operational areas. These observers also provide essential support to UNIFIL, contributing to peacekeeping efforts in the region.

In a statement, Tenenti said, “Safety and security of UN personnel must be guaranteed. All actors have a responsibility under international humanitarian law to ensure protection to non-combatants, including peacekeepers, journalists, medical personnel, and civilians. UNIFIL is very concerned over the surge of violence occurring across the Blue Line right now. This escalation has caused a high number of of civilian deaths and the destruction of homes and livelihoods. It is imperative that this escalation cease immediately. We urge all sides to put down their weapons and begin the process toward a sustainable political and diplomatic solution.”