UNIFIL statement on the death of 2nd peacekeeper from Ghanduriyah incident (22 April 2026)

One of the two severely injured French peacekeepers in an incident in South Lebanon on 18 April unfortunately passed away at a hospital in Paris this morning.

A specialist dog handler, Corporal Anicet Girardin, 31, was seriously wounded when his explosive ordnance disposal team, operating under UNIFIL’s French contingent, came under fire while clearing a road in Ghanduriyah to re‑establish access to isolated UNIFIL positions.

A third peacekeeper, who was also seriously injured, was among those repatriated to Paris yesterday and remains under medical care. A fourth peacekeeper, who sustained minor injuries, has been discharged from hospital and has returned to his base in Dayr Kifa.

As the family and friends of Corporal Girardin mourn his loss, we extend our most sincere condolences on this unfortunate and avoidable tragedy.

UNIFIL has launched an investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding this tragic incident, while encouraging the Government of Lebanon to swiftly conclude their own investigation to identify and hold the perpetrators accountable for the crimes committed against peacekeepers.

We once again remind all actors of their obligations under international law to ensure the safety and security of UN personnel and property at all times. Deliberate attacks on peacekeepers are grave violations of international humanitarian law and of Security Council Resolution 1701, and may amount to war crimes.