Crisis in Lebanon: Echoes of Gaza's Destruction

U.N. officials express alarm at repeat patterns of warfare by Israel in Lebanon, reminiscent of Gaza's devastation. The ongoing conflict with Hezbollah has led to over 1,000 deaths and mass displacement. Concerns mount over hospital shutdowns and potential disease outbreaks, urging international intervention.

U.N. officials voiced concern on Tuesday over the repetition of destructive warfare tactics by Israel in Lebanon, similar to those seen in Gaza. They urged immediate action to prevent what they describe as a 'spiral of doom.'

The escalation follows Israeli ground operations in southwestern Lebanon, intensifying a year-long conflict with Hezbollah that has resulted in over 1,000 fatalities and driven more than a million people from their homes. The situation recalls the devastation in Gaza, where an October 2023 attack by Hamas left 42,000 Palestinians dead and most of the population displaced.

Matthew Hollingworth, World Food Programme's Country Director in Lebanon, emphasized the urgency of preventing a similar disaster. Parallel concerns were echoed by the WHO, reporting numerous hospital shutdowns in Lebanon amid rising fears of disease outbreaks under crowded conditions. Meanwhile, Israeli forces continue to deny any wartime violations, despite U.N. human rights offices raising alarms.

(With inputs from agencies.)