UN rights chief says Israeli strikes in Lebanon may constitute crimes

BEIRUT, Lebanon (MNTV) — United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk has warned that the scale of displacement and destruction caused by Israeli military operations in Lebanon could amount to international crimes, urging greater protection for civilians and accountability for alleged violations.

Speaking in Beirut on Monday at the end of a two-day visit, Türk said he was deeply concerned by the humanitarian impact of Israel’s continued military campaign despite a conditional ceasefire reached on April 17 through US-mediated negotiations between Israel and the Lebanese government.

“I am concerned that the overall conduct resulting in large-scale displacement and denial of returns could amount to international crimes,” Türk said.

According to Lebanese authorities, more than 4,300 people have been killed and over 12,200 injured since the conflict escalated after Hezbollah joined the regional war triggered by the US-Israeli attacks on March 2.

During his visit, Türk met Lebanese government officials, civil society representatives, national human rights institutions and civilians displaced by the fighting. He also visited a school serving as a temporary shelter for around 1,000 people forced to flee their homes.

Displaced residents described widespread destruction of homes, schools, hospitals, water networks, electricity infrastructure, places of worship and agricultural land caused by Israeli airstrikes. 

Türk recounted the testimony of one resident whose mother and brother were killed when an Israeli strike destroyed their home in Beirut and who is now documenting alleged violations in pursuit of accountability.

“I am struck by the widespread damage and compounded suffering that I have seen,” Türk said. “The trauma, frustration and despair are palpable – but so too is the demand for justice.”

The UN human rights office said it has deployed a mission to Lebanon, with the government’s consent, to collect evidence regarding alleged violations of international human rights and humanitarian law committed by all parties to the conflict.

Türk also expressed concern over the future of the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), warning that the peacekeeping mission’s planned expiration at the end of the year could increase risks for civilians in southern Lebanon if no alternative arrangements are made.

In meetings with civil society organizations, Türk said activists highlighted the need for stronger legal protections for refugees, migrants, people with disabilities and LGBTQ+ individuals. 

He noted that many people with disabilities faced significant obstacles in evacuating conflict zones and accessing emergency shelters.

The UN rights chief acknowledged recent legislative progress by Lebanon, including ratifying the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and proposals to abolish the death penalty and strengthen judicial independence. 

He also called for improved prison conditions and the decriminalization of same-sex relationships.

Türk said rebuilding communities after the conflict would require sustained efforts to restore public trust, ensure accountability and guarantee the protection of human rights.