UN Rights Chief Warns of Possible War Crimes During Lebanon Visit

UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk has warned that alleged large-scale violations of international humanitarian law committed during the conflict in Lebanon could amount to war crimes, calling for accountability and renewed efforts to protect civilians.

Speaking at the end of an official visit to Lebanon, Türk said the country's recent reform momentum had been severely undermined after escalating regional tensions triggered renewed hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah earlier this year.

According to Lebanese authorities, more than 4,300 people have been killed and 12,200 injured in Lebanon since 2 March, including over 135 healthcare workers as well as journalists and media personnel. Türk said continued Israeli airstrikes and ground operations had caused widespread civilian casualties, mass displacement and extensive destruction, while Hezbollah rocket attacks on populated areas in Israel had also killed civilians and damaged infrastructure.

The UN human rights chief said his office had documented serious violations of international humanitarian law, some of which could constitute war crimes or other international crimes. He also expressed concern over Israel's continued military presence in southern Lebanon, warning that large-scale displacement and the prevention of civilian returns could amount to international crimes.

Türk confirmed that an independent UN assessment mission, agreed with the Lebanese government, is already on the ground collecting evidence of alleged human rights abuses and violations of international humanitarian law committed by all parties to the conflict since 2 March 2026.

During his visit, Türk met President Joseph Aoun, Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, parliamentary leaders, government ministers, internally displaced people and representatives of civil society. He described widespread destruction across southern Lebanon, where entire villages, schools, hospitals, water networks, power infrastructure and farmland have been devastated.

He also voiced concern over the future of the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), whose mandate is due to expire later this year, warning that any changes should prioritise civilian protection.

Beyond the conflict, Türk urged Lebanon to accelerate judicial reforms, improve prison conditions, strengthen protections for refugees, migrants, people with disabilities and LGBTQ+ individuals, and deliver justice for victims of the 2020 Beirut port explosion. He also welcomed draft legislation to abolish the death penalty, saying its adoption would make Lebanon the first country in the region to formally end capital punishment.

Türk concluded by reaffirming the UN's commitment to supporting Lebanon's recovery, stressing that rebuilding the country must be accompanied by stronger institutions, accountability and full respect for Lebanon's sovereignty and human rights.