Tyre: Six Lebanese army soldiers were tragically killed and several others injured during a weapons depot explosion in southern Lebanon on Saturday. The blast occurred while soldiers were engaged in a dismantling operation in Wadi Zibqin, located in the coastal district of Tyre. The Lebanese army has launched an investigation to determine the exact cause of the explosion.

According to Anadolu Agency, initial reports from the state National News Agency suggested that the explosion was caused by unexploded ordnance left behind by Israeli forces during a recent military assault by Tel Aviv in southern Lebanon. The incident highlights the ongoing dangers posed by leftover munitions in the region, which have repeatedly endangered both residents and security personnel.

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun received a briefing on the explosion and its consequences, as stated in an official military statement. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Nawaf Salam expressed his condolences on X, highlighting the nation's sorrow over the loss of its soldiers. "Lebanon mourns the sons of our valiant army who fell as martyrs in the south while carrying out their national duty," Salam stated.

The recent incident in southern Lebanon adds to a series of episodes involving remnants of military assaults by Israel. The region has been a hotspot for conflict, especially following Israel's military operations initiated on October 8, 2023, which escalated into a full-scale war by last September. This conflict resulted in over 4,000 fatalities and approximately 17,000 injuries.

Despite a ceasefire reached in November, tensions remain high as Israeli forces continue to conduct frequent attacks in the area, citing actions against Hezbollah activities. As per the truce agreement, Israel was expected to withdraw fully from southern Lebanon by January 26, but the deadline was later extended to February 18 due to non-compliance by Tel Aviv. Currently, Israel maintains a military presence at five border outposts in the region.