At least 12 people, including children, were injured today in an explosion during a group hike in the Ramim
By Bernard Moerdler,
At least 12 people, including children, were injured today in an explosion during a group hike in the Ramim Ridge area near the Lebanese border, according to Magen David Adom (MDA). Subsequent reports put the number of casualties at 21, although MDA has not yet publicly confirmed the higher figure.
The group reportedly included students and teachers hiking along the Israel National Trail. The mayor of Ma'alot told i24NEWS that the hike had received all the necessary permits and that the incident appeared to have been an accident.
Initial assessments suggest that unexploded ordnance may have detonated after members of the group stepped on it. The cause has not yet been officially confirmed.
MDA and IDF personnel are evacuating the injured, with helicopters dispatched to assist. Several people are reported to be seriously injured.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu canceled a planned visit to Samaria and returned to his office following the explosion. According to the Prime Minister's Office, Netanyahu spoke with MDA Director-General Eli Bin, Education Minister Yoav Kish, and his military secretary, requesting that the injured be evacuated to hospitals as quickly as possible.
National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir also canceled a press conference scheduled for this afternoon following the incident.
Topics: Lebanon & Hezbollah, IDF, Israeli Politics
Reported by Bernard Moerdler for Bernie News Network. See our editorial standards and corrections policy.