Israeli Police Chief Visits Site of Deadly Explosion During School Trip

Police Commissioner Dany Levy visited the scene of a severe explosion in the Upper Galilee on Monday, where a 15-year-old boy was killed and 19 others were injured during a school trip. Levy, accompanied by Northern District Commander Meir Eliyahu and other officials, reviewed the situation and praised the professional work of the police and bomb disposal units. He ordered continued investigation into the incident's circumstances while ensuring public safety and securing the site.

Decisions were made to halt excursions to the area for the coming days until a clearer picture of the disaster emerges. The trip had received approval from the Ministry of Education, which relied on IDF directives. The explosion occurred in an open area near Kibbutz Nofit Mordechai during a trip for middle and high school students.

Initial investigations suggest that one of the students may have brought an unexploded ordnance into his bag, leading to the detonation. Officials noted that the explosion could have been far worse, potentially occurring on the bus. Extensive rescue and medical forces, including MDA and Air Force helicopters, were dispatched to the scene. MDA Jordan Subdistrict Manager Itzik Shoshan described the chaotic scene upon arrival, with multiple casualties requiring immediate treatment and evacuation.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was briefed on the incident and spoke with MDA Director-General Eli Bin, Minister of Education Yoav Kisch, and his military secretary. Netanyahu emphasized the swift evacuation of the injured and is continuing to hold ongoing situation assessments.