The United Nations has expressed concern over the ongoing strikes along the Blue Line between Lebanon and Israel, with UN Secretary-General António Guterres condemning the loss of civilian lives, according to a statement from his spokesperson on Tuesday.
“The airstrike on Aitou in northern Lebanon, which reportedly caused at least 23 deaths, as confirmed by Lebanese authorities, is deeply troubling,” said UN spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric during a daily press briefing.
The UN remains particularly alarmed by the impact on civilians, especially in Lebanon. Dujarric urged all parties involved to adhere to international obligations, including international humanitarian law, to ensure the protection of civilians.
Dujarric also noted that clashes continue in southern Lebanon, where the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have been conducting ground operations since October 1.
In recent days, the UN has highlighted its concern over attacks targeting UN peacekeepers from the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL). Since October 1, at least five peacekeepers have been injured, and UN premises have been hit on at least 20 occasions, Dujarric reported.
“The Secretary-General reiterates that UNIFIL personnel and their premises must never be targeted. Attacks against peacekeepers violate international law, including international humanitarian law, and may amount to war crimes,” Dujarric added.
The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reported that the crisis is having a significant impact on civilians in both Lebanon and Israel. The conflict continues to displace large numbers of people, with Lebanese authorities estimating that 1.2 million individuals have been affected or displaced. As of October 13, the International Organization for Migration identified more than 740,000 people displaced within Lebanon due to the escalating violence.
On Tuesday, a convoy of 12 trucks carrying essential humanitarian aid reached the southern Lebanese villages of Marjeyoun and Klayaa. The mission, coordinated by OCHA and other UN agencies, delivered vital supplies such as bottled water, hygiene kits, blankets, pillows, and mattresses.
OCHA emphasized that the UN and its partners are continuing to provide critical assistance to those affected by the crisis across Lebanon. The World Food Programme is distributing ready-to-eat meals and cash to around 200,000 people daily, while the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) are offering healthcare, clean water, hygiene supplies, and psychological support to families in shelters.
