UN High Commissioner accuses Israel of potential war crimes in Lebanon

Volker Turk, the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, has accused Israel of committing large-scale human rights violations in Lebanon that may constitute war crimes. During a recent visit to the country, Turk highlighted persistent Israeli shelling, air strikes, and ground operations in southern Lebanon, noting that these actions continue despite a ceasefire agreement reached in April.

Turk described the situation as one of compounded suffering, citing widespread displacement, trauma, and the destruction of villages. He observed that many residents are enduring their second or third cycle of displacement, with some attempting to return home only to find their communities destroyed. The High Commissioner stated that the trauma and despair among the population are palpable, alongside a strong demand for justice.

During a visit to a school repurposed as a shelter hosting approximately 1,000 displaced people, Turk assessed that some of the observed violations by the Israeli military possibly amount to war crimes. He called for an immediate end to the violence and emphasised the necessity of documenting abuses to ensure accountability under international law.

In an interview with Al Jazeera, Turk expressed shock at the killing of UN colleagues in Gaza, Lebanon, and Yemen, describing the situation as "totally unfathomable" within his 35 years of service. He stressed that nobody is above international law and that there are no exceptions to it, urging that the truth be brought to light through rigorous documentation of the events.

The United Nations office has recorded violations of international law in the region, with Turk stating that the Israeli military continues to kill and injure people amid ongoing military operations. He reiterated that the majority of people worldwide care about the work of the United Nations and the establishment of accountability for these actions.