The Israeli military said a Hezbollah fighter crossed from Lebanon into Israeli territory before being killed in an exchange of fire with Israeli forces, triggering a major security alert across parts of northern Israel.
In a statement, the army said its forces identified the fighter after he crossed the border in the Mount Ramim area and opened fire shortly afterwards.
The military said ground troops, special forces units and air force aircraft participated in the pursuit and search operations that followed the incident.
According to a preliminary military investigation cited by Israeli Army Radio, the fighter managed to penetrate an area beyond the border fence and was carrying a rifle and a knife. Israeli security officials said he exchanged fire with Israeli troops after entering Israeli territory.
The incident prompted security authorities to place several northern communities on high alert. Residents of Margaliot, Manara and Misgav Am were instructed to remain indoors while security forces conducted searches in the area.
