Israeli Drone Strike Near Irish Peacekeepers Injures Locals

URGENT UPDATE: An Israeli drone strike has just devastated a van near Bint Jbeil, mere meters from Irish peacekeepers on patrol earlier today, July 15, 2025, according to reports from The Journal. The incident occurred while soldiers, part of the UNIFIL mission, were traveling in United Nations-marked Armoured Utility Vehicles (AUVs). Thankfully, no injuries were reported among the peacekeepers, who quickly followed tactical protocols to vacate the area for safety while damage was assessed.

The vehicle, believed to be a van, was completely destroyed in the attack, leaving at least seven local civilians injured. Bint Jbeil, a significant stronghold for Hezbollah, has seen severe destruction due to ongoing conflicts over the past year. This incident is not isolated; Irish troops have previously encountered air strikes in the region, including an August 2024 attack that damaged their AUV but resulted in no injuries.

In a statement released on its Telegram channel, the Israeli Defense Force (IDF) confirmed the drone strikes, asserting they targeted Hezbollah members and weapons traffickers in a series of operations across southern Lebanon. Among the casualties, two brothers from Shebaa lost their lives during a separate strike while driving near Mount Hermon, according to Lebanon’s official National News Agency. The Lebanese health ministry has confirmed the deaths and noted additional strikes, including one in Baraashit, which left one person dead and four wounded.

The timing of these attacks raises alarms as the European Union recently expressed growing concern over Israel’s relentless strikes, even amidst a year-long truce. “Focus by all parties must be on preserving the ceasefire and the progress achieved so far,” stated Anouar El Anouni, spokesman for the European Commission’s foreign affairs.

While no fatalities have been reported in the vicinity of the Irish troops, the Lebanese health ministry indicates a total of three deaths from multiple bombings throughout the day. Israel maintains its stance that Lebanon is not acting swiftly enough to disarm Hezbollah, insisting on its right to conduct operations to safeguard its borders.

Looking ahead, attention will be on potential escalations in the area as Israel announced a series of operations in southern Lebanon, advising civilians to evacuate targeted regions. Official statements from UNIFIL and the Irish Defence Forces are anticipated as the situation develops.

Stay tuned for more updates as this story unfolds.