In a devastating incident on Friday, a Reuters video journalist lost his life, while six other journalists sustained injuries in southern Lebanon. The incident unfolded as missiles, reportedly launched from the direction of Israel, struck the group of journalists who were diligently covering the ongoing border clashes between the Israeli military and Lebanese militia Hezbollah.

The group of journalists, hailing from various news organizations including Al Jazeera and Agence France-Presse, were conducting their reporting near Alma al-Shaab, a region situated close to the border with Israel. This area has been a hotspot for the exchange of fire between the Israeli military and Hezbollah in recent times.

The tragic event was quickly attributed to Israel by Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati and a Hezbollah lawmaker. Israeli authorities, however, had not issued an immediate response at the time of this report. In a briefing on Friday, Gilad Erdan, Israel’s U.N. envoy, expressed his condolences and stated, "Obviously, we would never want to hit or kill or shoot any journalist that is doing its job. But you know, we're in a state of war, things might happen." He also assured that the country would undertake a thorough investigation into the matter.

Reuters released a statement, confirming the tragic loss of Issam Abdallah, who was providing a live video signal for broadcasters. The camera was pointed at a hillside when a sudden and deafening explosion rocked the scene, filling the air with smoke, and screams were heard.

"We are deeply saddened to learn that our videographer, Issam Abdallah, has been killed," Reuters expressed in their statement. "We are urgently seeking more information, working with authorities in the region, and supporting Issam’s family and colleagues."