UNIFIL warns of potential war crimes amid escalating violence in Lebanon

Sponsored Ad

The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) expressed "grave concern" on Monday regarding the safety of civilians in southern Lebanon, amid a significant increase in Israeli bombing campaigns. In its statement, UNIFIL highlighted that attacks on civilians could not only violate international law but also potentially constitute war crimes.

According to Lebanese authorities, more than 270 individuals were killed in the recent Israeli strikes, including at least 21 children. This wave of violence marks the most intense military activity in the region since October of the previous year.

Aroldo Lazaro, head of UNIFIL, is actively engaging with both parties involved to seek a cessation of hostilities. The mission cautioned that any further escalation could lead to severe and lasting consequences for the region.

UNIFIL has been stationed in Lebanon since the conclusion of the civil war in 1990, aiming to maintain peace and security in the area. The current situation underscores the ongoing challenges faced by the mission in fulfilling its mandate amid heightened tensions.