UN Warns of Mounting Civilian Toll as Post-Ceasefire Violence Escalates in Lebanon
At least 127 civilians in Lebanon have been killed in Israeli strikes since a ceasefire was declared nearly a year ago, the United Nations reports, calling for impartial investigations into possible violations of international law by all parties.
During a Geneva press briefing, UN human rights spokesperson Thameen Al-Kheetan highlighted that increasing attacks by the Israeli military continue to take a heavy toll on civilians and infrastructure.
“We are seeing repeated strikes that kill civilians and damage civilian structures in Lebanon, along with growing threats of a wider offensive,” Al-Kheetan said.
Ceasefire Under Strain
Lebanon has accused Israel of violating the ceasefire, which was meant to end more than a year of clashes with Hezbollah, by continuing its strikes and maintaining military positions in the country.
Israel, in turn, claims that Hezbollah is rebuilding its military capabilities, alleging that the Iran-backed group is breaking ceasefire terms.
According to Lebanon’s health ministry, more than 330 people have been killed and 945 injured since the ceasefire took effect on 27 November last year. The UN has verified that at least 127 of these deaths were civilians.
Deadly Strikes on Civilians
One of the most severe incidents occurred last week in the Ain al-Hilweh Palestinian refugee camp in southern Lebanon, where an Israeli strike killed 13 people, including 11 children. Israel stated that its target was militants from Hamas, allied with Hezbollah.
However, Al-Kheetan emphasized that all fatalities from the strike were civilians, raising concerns that the attack may have violated international humanitarian law.
“There must be prompt and impartial investigations into the Ain al-Hilweh strike, as well as all other incidents involving possible violations of international law by all parties,” he said. “Those responsible must be brought to justice.”
Humanitarian Impact and Reconstruction Challenges
The UN also warned that continued Israeli attacks have damaged critical infrastructure in southern Lebanon, making reconstruction and the return of displaced residents extremely difficult. More than 64,000 people remain internally displaced across the country following last year’s war.
Al-Kheetan noted that Israel is constructing a wall encroaching on Lebanese territory, restricting 4,000 square meters and further preventing people from returning home.
“All internally displaced people must be able to return to their homes, and reconstruction should be supported, not hindered,” he said, urging all parties to uphold the ceasefire in good faith.
The Road Ahead
The rising civilian toll highlights the fragility of the ceasefire and the urgent need for accountability. Without transparent investigations and international oversight, the safety and stability of southern Lebanon remain at serious risk.
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