The following statement was issued today by the Spokesman for UN Secretary-General António Guterres:
The Secretary-General is deeply concerned by the escalation of Israeli military operations in southern Lebanon, particularly in and around Nabatieh.
He condemns the mounting civilian casualties, including women and children killed and injured in the intensifying attacks, the distress and displacement caused by the evacuation orders, and the scenes of massive destruction and devastation.
The Secretary-General is particularly alarmed by reported Israeli strikes affecting hospitals, healthcare workers and public institutions, as well as restrictions on humanitarian access. All parties must comply with their obligations under international law, including international humanitarian law. Civilians and civilian objects must be protected at all times, and attacks directed against them are unacceptable.
The Secretary-General appeals for an immediate cessation of hostilities. He calls on Israel to withdraw its forces from Lebanese territory. He urges all parties to respect Lebanon’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and to fulfil their obligations under Security Council resolution 1701 (2006).
The United Nations remains committed to supporting efforts to end the violence, protect civilians and advance a lasting solution to this conflict.