Lebanon claims Israeli violations aim to hinder nation's resurgence
Istanbul (ANTARA) - Lebanon’s Ambassador to the United Nations, Ahmad Arafa, stated that Israel continues to commit daily violations of the cessation of hostilities agreement, warning that these actions appear intended to thwart the resurgence of the Lebanese state.
“Lebanon has fully and comprehensively adhered to the ceasefire,” Arafa said during an emergency session of the United Nations Security Council regarding Lebanon on Monday (1/6).
However, he added that Israel continues to commit violations every day, sometimes on a very large scale. Israel is reportedly conducting a systematic campaign of destruction targeting villages, towns, and residential areas.
“Israel is also deliberately attacking medical personnel, hospitals, journalists, schools, infrastructure, security agencies, UNIFIL forces, places of worship, archaeological sites designated as world heritage, as well as many other targets that reflect the collective memory and civilizational identity of Lebanon,” Arafa stated.
Responding to Israel’s frequent justifications, Arafa noted, “Although Israel often portrays its actions as a form of self-defence, such claims do not exempt it from its obligations under international humanitarian law, particularly regarding the principles of proportionality, distinction, and precaution.”
Regarding the occupation of Lebanese territory by Israel, Arafa stated that the creation of security zones and the establishment of geographical lines constitute a form of direct occupation and a blatant violation of Lebanon’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
He assessed that the ongoing violations persist due to a lack of accountability. According to Arafa, this only reinforces impunity, which in turn encourages perpetrators to repeatedly commit similar crimes.
Israel continues to launch attacks on Lebanon despite the ceasefire that came into effect on 17 April, which was subsequently extended for 45 days following indirect negotiations mediated by the United States.
According to the Lebanese Ministry of Health, more than 3,400 people have been killed in attacks since 2 March.
Recently, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered a deepening of military operations in Lebanon. Israeli forces have also taken control of Beaufort Castle, a strategic fortress in southern Lebanon.