Teen killed, 24 injured by unexploded Hezbollah munition on hike near Lebanon border

The IDF is probing allegations of negligence following a fatal accident involving an overturned Humvee in southern Lebanon last Thursday. Capt. Eliav Haim Tzapalamus, 21, from Haifa, was among the victims. The family believes their son might have been saved if military protocols had been adhered to. According to family accounts, only one Humvee was dispatched on the mission, despite operational orders mandating at least two vehicles to travel together in Lebanon.

Following the accident, Tzapalamus remained trapped under the overturned vehicle for roughly 20-30 minutes. His comrades, who sustained injuries, were unable to summon assistance due to a malfunctioning radio system. The soldiers also faced challenges in righting the overturned Humvee, a situation the family asserts could have hastened the arrival of aid.

The IDF's Northern Command is probing the incident, scrutinizing whether the force complied with operational guidelines for vehicle movements in Lebanon. The Humvee was en route to Israeli territory to transport soldiers when the accident occurred. The vehicle overturned on a road near the Litani River in southern Lebanon's eastern sector, an area with several driving difficulties including steep declines, winding sections, sharp inclines, and stretches of damaged or unpaved roads.

While the road is paved, the route presents significant challenges. Preliminary reports suggest the driver was trained and experienced, and the Humvee was traveling at a reasonable speed. However, investigators are looking into whether the driver's speed was too high for the prevailing road conditions. They are also examining whether a road rock contributed to the driver losing control, causing the Humvee to overturn onto its right side.

Three additional IDF soldiers were lightly injured in the accident and were taken to a hospital for treatment. In a separate incident, two soldiers were lightly wounded due to improper ammunition use. Defense Minister Israel Katz extended condolences to Tzapalamus' family, expressing solidarity with his commanders and comrades. The IDF shares the family's grief and pledged support.

The matter is under investigation and will be presented to the bereaved family following completion, with full transparency.