French Soldier Serving with UNIFIL Killed in Southern Lebanon Clash

ARK News.. A French soldier serving with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon was killed during clash with gunmen in the town of Ghandouriya in southern Lebanon, in an incident that has drawn strong condemnation and official responses.

French President Emmanuel Macron accused Hezbollah of being responsible for the attack, stating that “all indications” point to the group’s involvement in targeting the UN peacekeeping patrol.

Lebanese Prime Minister Nawwaf Salam strongly condemned the assault, confirming that he had ordered an immediate investigation to uncover the circumstances of the incident and hold those responsible accountable. He warned that such “irresponsible behavior” would severely harm Lebanon’s relations with friendly and supportive countries.

According to media reports, the incident began with an altercation in Ghandouriya that escalated into an exchange of fire between armed individuals and UNIFIL personnel. Initial reports indicated that two members of the French contingent were wounded, before Paris later confirmed the death of one French soldier and injuries to three others in the attack on the UN patrol.

The incident comes amid rising tensions in southern Lebanon, despite repeated international calls to uphold the cessation of hostilities and ensure the safety of peacekeeping forces deployed in the area.

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