Unifil: United Nations peacekeepers discovered approximately 4,000 kilograms (8,818 pounds) of explosive material, primarily composed of ammonium nitrate compounds, during a routine patrol in southern Lebanon earlier this month, the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) announced on Tuesday.
According to Anadolu Agency, the discovery occurred on July 2 during a routine check near the border town of Houla, where peacekeepers found 385 containers abandoned inside a building. UNIFIL's Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) specialists assessed the hazard and conducted on-site procedures to render the material inert, effectively eliminating the threat.
UNIFIL also reported that a subsequent patrol on July 10 discovered the remains of an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) near a UN position in southern Lebanon. EOD specialists found explosive components inside the drone and safely neutralized them on site. Maj. Gen. Diodato Abagnara, Head of Mission and Force Commander, emphasized the importance of reducing explosive hazards to ensure the safety of peacekeepers and civilians returning to villages.
The mission highlighted the deployment of EOD specialists ahead of peacekeepers to evaluate and neutralize explosive hazards, making routes safer for peacekeepers and reducing risks. Although violence has decreased, explosive hazards still pose risks in parts of southern Lebanon, according to the mission. EOD teams continue to work towards reducing these risks, contributing to safer conditions for residents returning to their villages, farms, and daily activities.
The statement from UNIFIL comes amid ongoing Israeli violations of a US-mediated framework agreement between Lebanon and Israel. The agreement, which calls for a phased Israeli withdrawal from occupied Lebanese territory, is linked to the Lebanese army assuming full security responsibility in vacated areas and the disarmament of armed groups, including Hezbollah. Despite the agreement, Israeli attacks in Lebanon have resulted in significant casualties and territorial advancements into Lebanese areas.