Deadly Israeli Strike Near Beirut Hospital Sparks UN Outrage
The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, expressed deep outrage on Tuesday over a deadly Israeli strike that killed at least 18 people near a major hospital in Beirut. The incident, which also left 60 people injured, has raised concerns about the protection of civilians in conflict zones.
The strike, which occurred on Monday near the Rafic Hariri Hospital, Lebanon’s largest public health facility, resulted in minor damage to the hospital itself, with shattered windows and destroyed solar panels. However, four buildings in the vicinity were flattened, according to eyewitnesses.
Turk emphasized the need for a "prompt and thorough investigation" into the incident, stressing that "the fundamental principles of international humanitarian law concerning the protection of civilians must be respected." He also pointed out that four children were among the victims, highlighting the devastating impact of the strike on innocent lives.
The UN rights chief reiterated that hospitals, ambulances, and medical personnel are specifically protected under international humanitarian law due to their lifesaving function. He urged all parties to the conflict to take necessary precautions to avoid harming civilians and to assess the expected impact on healthcare services.
The incident has sparked concerns about the escalating violence in Lebanon, where Israel has been conducting air strikes and ground operations against Hezbollah strongholds. The conflict, which has been ongoing since September 23, has claimed at least 1,550 lives, according to official figures.
Turk’s call for an immediate cessation of hostilities and protection of civilians echoes the UN’s long-standing concerns about the humanitarian situation in the region. As the situation continues to unfold, the international community remains vigilant, urging all parties to adhere to international law and prioritize the protection of human life.
The Israeli strike near the Beirut hospital serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of conflict on civilian populations. As the investigation unfolds, it is crucial that all parties involved prioritize the protection of human life and take necessary measures to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future.
