Beirut, June 4 (QNA) – The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) announced today the death of one of its soldiers from wounds sustained when mortar shells landed on a UNIFIL post near Marjayoun in southern Lebanon.

UNIFIL explained in a statement that two other soldiers were wounded in the same incident and are currently receiving treatment at a medical facility within one of the force’s bases.

UNIFIL confirmed that it has launched an investigation to determine the circumstances of the incident, noting that it has recently observed a significant increase in the frequency of mortar fire in southern Lebanon, and calling for an end to the violence.

The international force reiterated its call on all parties to abide by their obligations under international law and to guarantee the safety and security of UN personnel and property at all times, including refraining from any actions that could endanger peacekeeping forces.

The statement underlined that deliberate attacks against peacekeeping forces constitute grave violations of international humanitarian law and UN Security Council Resolution 1701, and may amount to war crimes. (QNA)