A Polish soldier serving with the UNIFIL mission in Lebanon sustained minor injuries today after a vehicle struck a landmine.
Polish Soldier Injured in Lebanon
The Polish Operational Command of the Armed Forces reported that a Polish soldier with the UNIFIL mission was lightly wounded in Lebanon when a military vehicle hit a landmine. Defense Minister Kosiniak-Kamysz stated the injuries are not life-threatening.
The soldier’s family has been informed of the incident, according to the Operational Command.
Medical Attention and Condition
The injured soldier was immediately transported to a base for specialized medical care. He sustained minor head injuries that are not considered life-threatening. The soldier is a non-commissioned officer from the 12th Mechanized Brigade.
Iraqi Evacuation, No Evacuation from Lebanon
On March 20th, the Ministry of National Defense announced the evacuation of Polish soldiers from Iraq due to the changing security situation in the Middle East. Most personnel from the Polish Contingent in Iraq have returned to Poland, with some relocated to Jordan to continue the mission.
No similar decision has been made regarding the contingent in Lebanon, where approximately 200 Polish soldiers are serving as part of the UN UNIFIL mission.
Polish Presence in Lebanon – A History
Polish soldiers have been stationed in Lebanon since 1992, providing medical, logistical, and engineering support to UN forces. They initially served from 1992-2009, providing aid, demining, repairs, evacuations, and distributing supplies.
During that period, Polish forces, numbering over 600 at their peak, were repeatedly shelled by Israeli forces.
Return to Lebanon and Current Mission
The Polish contingent returned to Lebanon in 2019 and is scheduled to remain until the end of 2026. Eight Polish soldiers have died or passed away while serving in Lebanon.
Ongoing Updates
This article is being updated.
