Second French peacekeeper dies in Lebanon

The ambush, which the French government has blamed on Iran-backed Hezbollah, has sparked international condemnation and raised fears of further escalation in the region.

Hezbollah has denied responsibility for the attack, which occurred during a period of supposed ceasefire.

The deaths of the two peacekeepers have cast a shadow over upcoming diplomatic talks in Washington aimed at extending the current truce between Israel and Lebanon.

France continues to play a key role in the UNIFIL mission, which is tasked with maintaining stability along the volatile border.