UN rights chief says Israel committed large-scale violations in Lebanon

2 min read

UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk reported that his office has recorded large-scale violations of international humanitarian law by Israel in Lebanon since the conflict began on March 2, some possibly amounting to war crimes. Continued Israeli airstrikes, shelling and the use of explosive weapons in populated areas have caused extensive civilian casualties, destruction of entire villages south of the Litani River, and mass displacement, while rockets by Hezbollah have killed civilians in Israel. Lebanese authorities report more than 4,300 killed and 12,200 injured, including health care workers and journalists, and an independent assessment mission is collecting evidence.

UN documented possible war crimes during continued Israeli operations in Lebanon.