Two Finnish UNIFIL soldiers 'slightly injured' by 'explosion' in Marjayoun

The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) confirmed Thursday morning to L'Orient-Le Jour that two soldiers from the Finnish contingent were "slightly injured" Wednesday afternoon at 1:50 p.m. by an "explosion most likely related to a controlled demolition near Markaba," in the Marjayoun district.

"In addition to these injuries, a U.N. vehicle was significantly damaged. We reiterate the importance for the parties concerned to ensure the safety and security of United Nations personnel and premises," read the statement relayed by UNIFIL spokesperson Andrea Tenenti.

The information was reported overnight by the Hezbollah-affiliated channel, Al-Mayadeen, which mentioned injuries caused by Israeli shelling.

This incident comes a few days after the visit to Lebanon by the UN Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, who notably visited South Lebanon to inspect UNIFIL positions. Before leaving, he assured that the international community "will not accept a return to war," a few days before the end of the two-month period intended to implement the ceasefire terms between Israel and Hezbollah. He also condemned all attacks against peacekeepers.

Several incidents in recent weeks have resulted in injuries among UNIFIL soldiers. Peacekeeper positions have been hit several times during the war between Hezbollah and the Israeli state in South Lebanon. UNIFIL has about 10,000 peacekeepers, all deployed in southern Lebanon to monitor the maintenance of peace in the region.