Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.
Independent human rights experts appointed by the UN Human Rights Council report that thousands of displaced people in southern Lebanon remain unable to return home due to ongoing conflict that has devastated communities, destroying homes and cutting off entire towns from access. The experts emphasized that evacuation should be a temporary measure used only to protect civilian safety or for significant military reasons, not to depopulate areas, and that civilians have the right to return voluntarily and safely once the reasons for displacement end.
Since fighting escalated in March, more than 4,300 people have reportedly been killed, including 392 women and 253 children, and over 12,000 injured. The humanitarian impact has been especially severe for women and children, with an estimated 620,000 displaced women and girls, including approximately 16,000 pregnant women. Many births have occurred in overcrowded shelters as hospitals and maternity services have been damaged or closed, depriving mothers and newborns of essential care.
The experts expressed concern about increased risks of violence and abuse faced by displaced women and girls, as well as the loss of reproductive and maternal healthcare services. Additionally, there have been reports of white phosphorus used in residential areas, raising concerns due to its potential to cause severe burns, respiratory damage, and long-term health effects, especially for children and pregnant women.
The experts called on all conflicting parties to uphold international humanitarian law by protecting civilians, including women and girls, and enabling the safe return of displaced people when conditions permit. They reaffirmed that protecting civilians in armed conflict is a legal obligation, not optional.