An unexploded ordnance detonated during a school hiking trip near Israel’s northern border on Monday, killing one student and injuring 24 others, in an area that had not been officially approved for excursions, according to initial investigations. The incident occurred near the Ramim Ridge close to the Lebanese border, a region reportedly designated as off-limits by the Jewish National Fund (JNF) in May 2025, although the area remained accessible and was not marked or physically blocked.

The students, from ORT Ma’alot, were participating in a supervised hike when the blast occurred. The Education Ministry said on Tuesday it was investigating whether the group deviated from the approved route. The ministry emphasized that the planned path had received approval and complied with restrictions set by the JNF, which manages the land. It stated that the route did not pass directly through the closed area. Additionally, safety guidelines given to students before the trip explicitly prohibited touching unexploded ordnance or ammunition and instructed them to report any hazardous items encountered.

JNF representatives clarified that while they had designated the area as unsafe and closed to visitors, they lacked the authority to formally approve school trips or to physically restrict access. The organization acknowledged that preventing entry into such zones is challenging due to the absence of barriers or clear signage. This has raised questions about the coordination and responsibility among various entities, including the Education Ministry, local authorities, and security agencies.

Under existing regulations, schools in Israel must submit trip plans to the Education Ministry for approval. Authorities confirmed that the JNF had informed the ministry of the danger along the Ramim Ridge and that an alternative route had been approved with the closure in mind. However, the approved trail passed close to, but not within, the hazardous area where the ordnance detonated. Investigators are looking into whether the students veered off course or if the approved route was inaccurately defined by the ministry.

The student killed was identified as 14-year-old Elazar Yair Wilensky of Ma’alot-Tarshisha. Wilensky was the youngest of five siblings and is survived by his parents and four brothers and sisters. His family described him as a bright, thoughtful child who loved life. The incident has prompted heightened scrutiny over safety protocols for school excursions in regions with lingering security risks.