Unexploded ordnance blast in northern Israel leaves about 20 wounded

An explosion in northern Israel, near the border with Lebanon, has wounded about 20 people. According to initial police information, the cause was identified as unexploded ordnance.

The incident occurred on Sunday morning between Kibbutz Manara and Kibbutz Yiftach. Preliminary indications suggest the blast originated from unexploded ordnance, causing injuries of varying severity to about 20 people.

Shortly after reports of the explosion emerged, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu canceled a planned visit to the occupied West Bank.

Police forces from the Kiryat Shmona station (Northern District) are at the scene, securing and cordoning off the area. Bomb disposal experts are investigating the circumstances and origin of the explosion.

Further information will be updated…