UN Secretary-General António Guterres has expressed deep concern over the recent wave of violence in Lebanon, particularly following a series of deadly explosions that have claimed at least 12 lives and injured thousands. The blasts, which occurred on September 17 and 18, 2024, involved wireless communication devices used by members of Hezbollah and have heightened fears of escalating conflict in the region.
The explosions were triggered by a large number of wireless paging devices detonating simultaneously across Lebanon, resulting in chaos and panic among the civilian population. Reports indicate that the blasts not only killed several individuals, including children, but also left nearly 2,800 people injured.
The situation has raised alarms about potential retaliatory actions from Hezbollah against Israel, which they blame for the attacks.
In a statement delivered by his spokesperson, Stéphane Dujarric, Guterres called for all parties involved to exercise “maximum restraint” to prevent further escalation. He emphasized the urgent need for a return to a cessation of hostilities and adherence to UN Security Council resolution 1701, which aims to maintain peace and stability in the region.
The recent violence comes amid an already volatile backdrop marked by ongoing hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah, exacerbated by the conflict in Gaza. The UN has noted that these events threaten to destabilize the region further. Guterres warned that “the region is on the brink of catastrophe,” urging all actors to recommit to diplomatic efforts aimed at restoring peace.
The Secretary-General’s concerns are echoed by other international leaders who are monitoring the situation closely. The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, also condemned the violence and called for accountability for those responsible for the attacks.
Guterres highlighted that civilian objects should never be weaponized and stressed the importance of protecting innocent lives during conflicts. He reiterated that any military actions must comply with international humanitarian law, particularly regarding the protection of civilians.
The UN’s Special Coordinator for Lebanon has also voiced apprehensions about the potential for further violence if tensions are not managed effectively. Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert emphasized that continued escalatory actions could lead to devastating consequences for both Lebanese citizens and regional stability.
