France holds national tribute for soldiers killed in Lebanon attack

France held a national tribute on April 23 in Montauban for soldiers killed in an attack on UN peacekeepers in southern Lebanon.

The ceremony was attended by French Defense Minister Catherine Vautrin.

Two French soldiers died following an ambush during route clearance operations.

Staff Sgt.

Florian Montorio of the 17th Parachute Engineer Regiment was killed over the weekend, and Master Corporal Anicet Girardin died on Wednesday from his injuries.

The attack involved an improvised explosive device and heavy small arms fire.

French President Emmanuel Macron and the UN peacekeeping force UNIFIL have blamed the militant group Hezbollah for the assault, although Hezbollah denies involvement.

This incident highlights the ongoing risks faced by peacekeepers in southern Lebanon amid tensions with Hezbollah.

The deaths have prompted official national recognition and underscore the fragile security situation in the region.

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