Months of ongoing conflict in Lebanon continue to devastate communities, displacing thousands and leaving families without shelter, healthcare, and other essential services. The persistent hostilities have resulted in widespread destruction, rendering homes uninhabitable and cutting off entire towns. Many communities in South Lebanon remain inaccessible, further complicating humanitarian efforts amidst the critical needs of the displaced population. The United Nations Human Rights Council has expressed concern regarding the safety of return for those who have fled their homes, noting the precarious situation for thousands still unable to go back.
Devastating Civilian Toll
Since March 2, more than 4,300 people have reportedly been killed, including 392 women and 253 children, amidst the ongoing conflict. Over 12,000 individuals have sustained injuries, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis. The escalation in fighting since March has displaced an estimated 620,000 women and girls, forcing them to abandon their homes and livelihoods. Among those displaced are approximately 16,000 pregnant women, who face heightened risks and challenges. Many of these displaced women are reportedly giving birth in overcrowded shelters because hospitals and maternity services have been damaged or forced to close, severely impacting access to vital maternal care. The lack of proper medical facilities and safe environments for childbirth adds another layer of suffering to an already dire situation for these vulnerable populations.
Expert Concerns and Warnings
Experts voiced concern over reports of white phosphorus being used in residential areas of southern Lebanon. The experts cautioned that such use could constitute a serious violation of international humanitarian law, given its indiscriminate and devastating effects on civilian populations. They emphasized the devastating impact of such munitions on civilian populations and infrastructure, leading to severe burns and long-term health complications. The experts showed that the use of such weapons in populated areas is particularly alarming and warrants immediate investigation.
The experts called on all parties involved in the conflict to uphold international humanitarian law without exception, stressing that adherence to these laws is non-negotiable. They urged combatants to prioritize the protection of civilians and civilian objects, stressing the need to avoid targeting non-combatants, schools, hospitals, and other essential infrastructure. They appealed for conditions that would enable displaced people to return home safely and voluntarily. The experts noted that returns should only occur when the security situation permits, ensuring their dignity and well-being, and that any return must be based on informed consent and adequate safety guarantees.
Call for International Law
Independent human rights experts appointed by the UN Human Rights Council warned on Wednesday that civilians are paying a "devastating and disproportionate toll" in the ongoing conflict. The experts emphasized that the protection of civilians, including women and girls, is a fundamental legal obligation under international humanitarian law, binding all parties to the conflict. "The protection of civilians, including women and girls, in times of war is not optional for any warring party. It is a legal obligation that must be urgently upheld," the independent human rights experts stated, reiterating the imperative for all combatants to comply with their duties. They also clarified the conditions under which evacuations are permissible, noting their temporary and exceptional nature. "Evacuation is an exceptional and strictly temporary measure. It may only be used to protect the safety of civilians or for imperative military reasons, not to depopulate and occupy areas," the experts said, emphasizing that forced displacement for strategic gain is a violation of international law.
Humanitarian Law Obligations
Thousands of displaced people remain unable to return home in southern Lebanon, facing prolonged uncertainty and hardship. The ongoing hostilities have prevented safe and voluntary returns, raising concerns about the long-term well-being of these populations and their ability to rebuild their lives. Many families continue to face precarious conditions, unable to access their properties or rebuild their lives due to the persistent insecurity and widespread destruction. The situation shows the urgent need for all parties to respect international humanitarian law and create conditions conducive to the safe return of civilians, which includes ensuring access to essential services and reconstruction efforts. This includes ensuring the cessation of hostilities and the establishment of secure environments for displaced communities, allowing them to return with dignity and without fear of renewed violence.
