An IDF spokesman updated today (Sunday) that an IDF soldier was seriously injured and a combat officer was moderately injured overnight, as a result of stepping on an explosive device in southern Lebanon. According to the statement, a combat officer and another soldier were lightly injured in the incident. The soldiers were evacuated to receive medical treatment at a hospital and their families have been notified.
The incident occurred during an operational mission conducted by the IDF ground forces in southern Lebanon. The force was moving in the area as part of the effort to clear terrorist infrastructure and protect the communities, and during the movement it came across an explosive device that had been planted in the area. The explosion injured four members of the force with varying degrees of injury.
Immediately after the explosion, a rapid medical rescue procedure began. Evacuation unit fighters, combined with air crews, joined the force in the area and provided initial treatment to the wounded. Subsequently, all of the injured – the fighter in serious condition, the officer in moderate condition, and the two additional injured who were in mild condition – were evacuated for further treatment in a hospital, and their families were informed.
The fighting in southern Lebanon is characterized by complex infrastructural and topographical challenges. IDF forces are required to scan complicated areas, built-up areas, and underground infrastructure. Alongside the threats of drones and anti-tank fire, the threat of explosive devices and mines is considered one of the main threats posed by terrorist organizations in the region in order to delay the advance of forces and harm fighters operating in the field.