Tue Sep 24 20:40:59 UTC 2024: ## Lebanon on Brink of “Another Gaza” as Israeli Strikes Kill Hundreds, UN Warns

**BEIRUT** – As Lebanon reels from a devastating wave of Israeli airstrikes that reportedly killed hundreds, including dozens of children, UN officials are sounding the alarm, warning of a potential descent into a full-scale conflict reminiscent of the 2006 war.

The airstrikes, launched in retaliation for attacks by Hezbollah, have left at least 492 people dead and over 1,600 injured, according to the Lebanese Ministry of Health. The strikes have been condemned by the international community, with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressing grave concern that Lebanon could become another Gaza.

UN officials are urging immediate de-escalation and a focus on protecting civilians, emphasizing the catastrophic consequences for the Lebanese population, especially children. “Any further escalation in this conflict will be absolutely catastrophic for all children in Lebanon,” said Ettie Higgins, UNICEF’s deputy representative in the country.

The situation has been further exacerbated by last week’s attacks involving Hezbollah pagers and walkie-talkies, which left dozens dead and thousands injured. The incidents caused widespread panic and fear, overwhelming the Lebanese healthcare system, and left many with severe injuries, including amputations.

The UN is calling for all parties involved to respect international humanitarian law, emphasizing the need to protect civilians, particularly in light of the recent wave of violence. UN officials have also expressed concern about the indiscriminate nature of Hezbollah’s rocket attacks on Israel.

“Have we not learned anything from what has been happening in Gaza over the past year?” asked Ravina Shamdasani, spokesperson for the UN human rights office. “This is not normal and this needs to stop.”

The UN is urging a swift resolution to the conflict, highlighting the potential for further displacement and humanitarian crisis in a country already grappling with economic woes and the ongoing Syrian refugee crisis. “Lebanon has for many years been a generous host to refugees, including an estimated 1.5 million Syrians living in the country,” said Matthew Saltmarsh, spokesperson for the UN refugee agency. “This new crisis comes after COVID-19, the economic downturn and the impact of the Beirut blast.”

Read More