Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.
UN Human Rights Chief Volker Türk recently visited Lebanon, meeting with government officials, civil society groups, and civilians displaced by ongoing conflict. Lebanon faces multiple crises, including delayed elections, economic collapse, and conflict involving Iranian-backed Hezbollah militants since March 2. National authorities report over 4,300 fatalities and 12,200 injuries during the conflict.
Mr. Türk expressed concern that the conduct of hostilities—including Israeli airstrikes in densely populated areas and continued Hezbollah fighting despite a conditional ceasefire agreed on April 17—may constitute international crimes. He highlighted significant displacement and obstacles to the return of affected populations.
During his visit, he heard from displaced civilians at a school sheltering about 1,000 people. Testimonies described destruction of homes, schools, healthcare centers, water and electricity infrastructure, places of worship, and agricultural lands due to Israeli strikes. One individual who lost family members in such attacks is documenting alleged rights violations and seeking accountability.
With Lebanon's consent, the UN human rights office deployed a mission to collect information on alleged violations by all conflict parties. Mr. Türk cautioned that the pending end of the UN Interim Force in Lebanon's mandate may increase risks to civilians in southern Lebanon.
Conversations with civil society organizations highlighted urgent needs for stronger protections for marginalized groups, including refugees, migrants, LGBTQ+ individuals, and persons with disabilities. Mr. Türk described hearing "heartbreaking" stories, especially about difficulties faced by people with disabilities during evacuations.