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UN report Highlights Humanitarian Concerns in Lebanon and West Bank
The United Nations has raised serious concerns regarding the use of herbicides in Southern Lebanon and escalating tensions in the occupied West Bank, including displacement, demolitions, and settlement expansion. These actions pose significant humanitarian risks and potentially violate international law.
Herbicide Use in Southern Lebanon
The office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) has expressed alarm over reports of herbicide use near the Lebanon-Israel border. Alessandra Vellucci, Director of the UN Information Service in Geneva, stated that the use of herbicides raises concerns about the long-term impact on agricultural lands and the ability of civilians to return to their homes and livelihoods. OHCHR experts have raised alarm over the potential for widespread damage to agricultural lands.
The OHCHR has called for a thorough inquiry to determine the nature of the chemical substances used. Reports from Lebanese authorities suggest the herbicide is glyphosate, found in concentrations 20 to 30 times the recommended levels in sprayed areas. Reuters reported on February 2, 2024, that the UN is investigating the use of herbicides.
Any activity by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) north of the Blue Line is considered a violation of UN Resolution 1701, which aimed to establish a ceasefire and create a demilitarized zone between Lebanon and Israel following the 2006 war. UN Security Council Resolution 1701
Escalating Tensions in the occupied West Bank
The UN also voiced deep concern over the situation in the occupied West Bank, citing increased Israeli operations and settlement activity that threaten the viability of a future Palestinian state. Tens of thousands of Palestinians have been forcibly displaced since last year.
Israeli military operations, including the “iron Wall” operation, have uprooted over 32,000 people from refugee camps in Jenin, Tulkarem, and Nur Shams. Many remain unable to return home,and some have had their homes destroyed.UN News reported on the escalating violence in the occupied West Bank in January 2024.
Recent Israeli security operations have targeted Palestinian communities in occupied East Jerusalem. In the Shu’fat refugee camp, Israeli forces raided homes and shops, detaining at least 25 Palestinians, confiscating property, and seizing vehicles. In Kafr Aqab and the Qalandiya refugee camp, approximately 70 Palestinian structures were demolished, reportedly in readiness for new settlement projects.
The OHCHR has documented “relentless violence” by Israeli settlers against Palestinians, often with the support or participation of Israeli security forces. Settlement expansion is occurring at an unprecedented rate, violating international law. In December 2023, Israeli authorities issued tenders for over 3,000 settlement units between East Jerusalem, Ramallah, and Bethlehem.