Four Israeli reservists were killed, and six others wounded, during a clash with Hezbollah operatives in southern Lebanon yesterday afternoon, the IDF announced Thursday. The victims are 22, 31, 35 and 42 years old, and served in the 222nd Battalion of the Carmel Brigade.

According to an initial IDF investigation, Hezbollah insurgents emerged from a tunnel and threw grenades at the soldiers, who returned fire. Of the six injured soldiers, three are in serious condition.

In separate incidents in southern Lebanon, the IDF announced that an officer of the 77th Battalion of the 7th Armored Brigade was seriously wounded in an anti-tank guided missile attack. A reservist with the 7155th Battalion of the 55th Commando Brigade was seriously injured during a fight with Hezbollah operatives. and an officer with the 226th Commando Brigade’s 6226th Battalion was seriously wounded by shrapnel.

According to the AFP tally, since the start of operations in Lebanon on September 20, 26 Israeli soldiers have been killed.

Netanyahu’s statement

“Brave fighters defended the state of Israel with their bodies and, fighting in southern Lebanon against terrorists, gave their precious lives for our security. My wife Sarah and I offer our deepest condolences to the families of the fallen who paid an incalculable price. This is a difficult time of pain for you and for all of us. Our hearts go out to those injured in this incident and we pray for a speedy recovery.”