THE United Nations Human Rights Office voiced concern on Friday regarding the severe civilian impact of Israeli military operations in Lebanon, with a focus on damage to religious and cultural landmarks.
According to the UN office, since last October, Israel has destroyed or heavily damaged at least 10 mosques and churches. It emphasized that under international law, attacks on religious sites are prohibited.
Expressing further concern over strikes near the UNESCO-listed ancient temple complex in Baalbek, the UN noted that international humanitarian law mandates the protection of civilian sites, except where military use is confirmed. Even in such cases, it underscored, attacks must be proportionate and executed with caution.
Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, the UN special coordinator for Lebanon, also warned on social media of risks to Lebanon’s heritage sites in Tyre and Baalbek, home to UNESCO-designated Roman ruins. “Lebanon’s cultural heritage must not become another casualty in this devastating conflict,” she stated.
Xinhua
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