UN experts on Friday voiced "sharp condemnation" over Israel's violations of international law in Lebanon, warning its escalating attacks there will only exacerbate death and displacement in its neighbor.
"The number of internally displaced persons in Lebanon has more than tripled in less than a month due to Israel’s relentless attacks on populated areas coupled with belated or ineffective evacuation orders, in violation of the principles of distinction and proportionality," the experts said in a statement.
"Israel’s latest breach of international law – a ground invasion in violation of Lebanon’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and Security Council resolution 1701 – will only add to this mounting toll of death and displacement," they said.
Noting that Lebanon was grappling with social and economic instability and hosting millions of refugees even before the current conflict, they warned that further damage to Lebanon’s institutions could overwhelm the country’s ability to respond to this crisis.
"While the humanitarian response has been commendable, Israel has impeded relief efforts through attacking vital civilian infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and water and health facilities, as well as health and humanitarian workers themselves," the experts said. "These are clear violations of the international obligation to respect and protect relief personnel that risk collapsing the system to protect and assist displaced persons."