Türk made the remarks in Beirut on Monday at the end of a two-day visit to Lebanon, where Türk met government officials, civil society organisations, human rights bodies and displaced families affected by the conflict.
Lebanon is facing overlapping crises, including economic collapse, delayed elections and conflict linked to the wider regional war. According to national authorities, more than 4 300 people have been killed and 12 200 injured in Lebanon since Iran-backed Hezbollah joined the conflict triggered by United States (US)-Israeli attacks on March 2.
“I am concerned that the overall conduct resulting in large-scale displacement and denial of returns could amount to international crimes,” Türk said.
Despite a conditional ceasefire agreed by Israel and the Lebanese Government on April 17 through US-led talks, Israeli strikes have continued, while Hezbollah has also continued fighting.
The UN Human Rights Office said airstrikes and the use of explosive weapons in densely populated areas have caused widespread displacement and destruction.
Türk visited a school that has been converted into a shelter for about 1 000 displaced people. Civilians told Türk that Israeli strikes had destroyed homes, schools, health facilities, water networks, electricity infrastructure, places of worship and agricultural land.
Türk also recounted meeting a man whose mother and brother were killed when Israeli attacks destroyed their home in Beirut. The man is now documenting rights violations and seeking accountability. “I am struck by the widespread damage and compounded suffering that I have seen,” Türk said.
“The trauma, frustration and despair are palpable, but so too is the demand for justice which I heard resoundingly,” Türk said.
With the consent of Lebanon’s Government, the UN Human Rights Office has deployed a mission to collect information and evidence on alleged violations of international human rights and humanitarian law by all parties to the conflict.
Türk also warned that the expected expiry of the mandate of the UN Interim Force in Lebanon at the end of the year could create new risks for civilians in southern Lebanon.
During meetings with civil society organisations, Türk heard concerns about the protection of refugees, migrants, LGBTQ+ people and people with disabilities.
Türk said accounts of people with disabilities struggling to evacuate or access emergency shelters were “heartbreaking”.
Türk noted some progress, including Lebanon’s ratification of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and proposed reforms to abolish the death penalty, strengthen judicial independence and improve the rule of law.
Türk also called for improved prison conditions and the decriminalisation of same-sex relationships. “My office and my colleagues here on the ground remain ready to support Lebanon in the promotion and protection of human rights for all,” Türk said.
–UN/ChannelAfrica–
