A 15-year-old boy was tragically killed and 19 others were injured on Monday after an unexploded munition detonated during a school trip near Kibbutz Yiftach in northern Israel.

The victims were students and teachers from ORT Ma'alot Yeshiva High School, who were participating in an annual outing along the Israel National Trail near Mitzpe Pe'er in the Upper Galilee.

Several of the injured were reported in serious condition, prompting a large emergency response involving Magen David Adom, United Hatzalah, ambulances, and rescue helicopters.

According to preliminary investigative findings, a student reportedly discovered an unexploded munition along the trail and placed it inside a bag. The device subsequently detonated near other students and staff members. Authorities are continuing to investigate the exact circumstances.

Emergency personnel evacuated the injured to nearby hospitals, while bomb disposal teams examined the area for additional unexploded ordnance.

The Ma'alot-Tarshiha Municipality confirmed that students and staff from the school were involved and said municipal officials were coordinating with emergency services and education authorities to assist those affected.

The tragedy has raised concerns over the danger of unexploded munitions remaining in areas used by school groups and hikers.