Hezbollah Drone Strike Hits IDF Forces During Medical Evacuation

Newly released footage captured the harrowing moment IDF soldiers intercepted a Hezbollah explosive-laden drone while evacuating wounded troops from southern Lebanon, following an attack that claimed the life of one soldier and wounded six others.

The incident unfolded in the southern Lebanese town of Taybeh, within Israel's declared security zone, when a tank belonging to the 77th Battalion became immobilized during operations. As troops worked to repair the disabled vehicle, Hezbollah launched an explosive-laden drone that struck near the forces, killing Sgt. Idan Fooks and wounding six additional soldiers, four of them seriously.

IDF forces in Lebanon (photo: IDF Spokesperson Unit)

Attack During Medical Evacuation

An Israeli Air Force helicopter was immediately dispatched to evacuate the wounded soldiers to medical facilities. However, as the evacuation operation commenced, Hezbollah terrorists launched two additional explosive-laden drones targeting both the forces on the ground and the rescue helicopter.

According to an IDF investigation of the incident, soldiers successfully intercepted one of the incoming drones. The second drone detonated near the troops and the helicopter but miraculously caused no additional casualties. The dramatic footage shows IDF fighters engaging the aerial threat even as medical evacuation procedures continued under fire.

Escalating Ceasefire Violations

The attack represents the latest in a series of Hezbollah ceasefire violations that have prompted Israeli military responses. The terror organization has repeatedly launched projectiles and drones toward Israeli forces operating in southern Lebanon, despite the ceasefire arrangement that began on April 16.

Earlier incidents this weekend included Hezbollah launching two projectiles toward northern Israeli communities, triggering sirens in Manara, Margaliot, and Misgav Am. One projectile was intercepted while another landed in an open area without causing injuries. The pattern of violations led Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to order the IDF to carry out strikes against Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon.