71-year-old archaeologist killed by Hezbollah during tour of ancient castle in Lebanon

However, two Hezbollah fighters reportedly ambushed the group and opened fire.

The IDF issued a statement saying Mr. Erlich “fell in action” in Lebanon and recognized him as a fallen soldier.

His entry into Lebanon, and reports that this was not his first visit to an active war zone, is currently being investigated by military police.

The IDF said that 20-year-old Sergeant Gur Kehati of the Golani Brigade was killed and a company commander from the 13th battalion was seriously injured in the incident. Colonel Yarom was moderately injured in the clash.

Incident sparks ‘code of conduct’ investigation

Following the news of his death, Israel’s chief of staff, Herzl Halevi, ordered a team of experts to examine and strengthen “operational discipline in war”.

The investigation will examine “codes of conduct and norms used in army units on the two main combat fronts, north and south.”

Mr. Erlich, who lived in the West Bank settlement of Ofra, was known for his archaeological work and wrote several books about Jewish history in Israel.

Bezalel Smotrich, the finance minister and leader of the far-right Religious Zionism party, issued a statement praising Mr. Erlich and said he had “made a great contribution to the security of the country.”

“Senior officers have assisted him over the years in analyzing and understanding the region and its importance to ongoing security and operations,” he added.

Heritage minister Amichai Eliyahu of the far-right Jewish Power party also issued a statement praising Mr Erlich, saying he had the “energy of a 17-year-old”.

“Every rock had a story. Date for each route. Bible in one pocket, map in the other. “At an age when others were sitting on the sofa with their grandchildren, he chose to be in Lebanon,” he said.

Mr Erlich will be buried in the cemetery in Ofra on Thursday.