UN: Israel may have committed war crimes in Lebanon

The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, has indicated that Israel's conduct in Lebanon could amount to war crimes. His statement follows observations of significant civilian harm, widespread destruction of villages, and large-scale displacement of people.

"My office has registered extensive violations of international humanitarian law, some of which may amount to war crimes," Türk stated during an official visit to Lebanon on Monday. He specifically referenced the ongoing Israeli military operations, noting that persistent airstrikes, artillery fire, and the use of explosive weapons in populated areas have resulted in numerous civilian fatalities.

The High Commissioner also highlighted the impact of the prolonged Israeli occupation of southern Lebanon, which has led to mass displacement. He pointed out that entire villages south of the Litani River, approximately 30 kilometers from the Israeli border, have been destroyed or rendered uninhabitable.

According to Lebanese authorities, the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, which began on March 2, 2026, has resulted in over 4,300 deaths and 12,200 injuries in Lebanon. Among the casualties are 135 health workers and several journalists. Türk also acknowledged that rockets launched by the Lebanese Hezbollah militia into populated areas of Israel have caused civilian casualties and damaged infrastructure.