The Israeli army confirmed on Wednesday that a group of settler activists crossed the northern border into Lebanon, near the Lebanese village of Maroun al-Ras,  earlier this month. The incident, initially reported as an encampment near an Israeli border community, has now been described as a breach of the Blue Line, the internationally recognized boundary between Israel and Lebanon.

According to the Israeli army, the activists crossed several meters into Lebanese territory before being identified and dispersed by soldiers stationed in the area. The military initially stated that the activists had set up camp within a closed military zone on the Israeli side of the border but revised its account following further investigation.

“This is a grave incident that is being investigated,” the Israeli army stated, emphasizing the risks associated with unauthorized border crossings. “Any attempt to approach or cross the border into Lebanese territory without coordination endangers one’s life and harms the Israeli military’s ability to operate in the area and fulfill its mission.”

Additionally, troops have been briefed on updated procedures for managing civilians approaching the border zone, the army noted.