UN Raises Concerns Over Civilian Safety in Lebanon

Recent Israeli military operations in southern Lebanon have resulted in civilian deaths, raising serious concerns from the United Nations about civilian protection and infrastructure destruction. The Israeli Defense Forces claim their strikes target Hezbollah operatives and infrastructure used for terrorist purposes, allegedly using civilians as human shields. Since a ceasefire took effect on November 27, 2024, at least 71 civilians, including women and children, have been killed, with over 92,000 displaced. Calls for independent investigations into alleged violations of international humanitarian law emphasize the need to protect civilians and allow safe resettlement. The situation remains tense as both sides accuse each other of violating the ceasefire, with ongoing violence threatening regional stability. The UN stresses the urgent need for the ceasefire to hold and for all parties to respect international humanitarian law.