Lebanon's UN Envoy Accuses Israel of Systematic Destruction
Arafa drew a stark contrast between the two sides' conduct since the cessation of hostilities took effect. "Lebanon adhered to the cessation of hostilities fully and completely," he said, adding: "In stark contrast, however, Israel persisted in its daily violations, and at times on a massive scale."
He accused Israel of waging a deliberate campaign of devastation, charging that it "continues a systematic campaign of destruction targeting villages, towns, and residential neighborhoods while deliberately striking medical personnel, hospitals, journalists, schools, infrastructure, security agencies, UNIFIL forces, places of worship, archeological sites designated as world heritage sites, and countless other targets that embody Lebanon's collective memory and civilizational identity."
"Lebanon condemns in the strongest possible terms and in a clear and unequivocal manner these Israeli practices and violations," Arafa added.
Directly challenging Israel's legal justifications, Arafa said: "While Israel may consistently boastfully frame its actions as acts of self-defense, such claims do not absolve it of its obligations under international humanitarian law, especially those pertaining to the principles of proportionality, distinction, and precaution."
On the question of territorial occupation, he was equally unsparing: "The establishment of security zones and the demarcation of geographic lines constitute a direct occupation and a flagrant violation of Lebanon's sovereignty and territorial integrity."
Arafa also warned that the absence of accountability was perpetuating a dangerous cycle, cautioning that impunity "only fuels impunity, that in turn emboldens the perpetrator to commit the very same crimes time and time again."
He closed on a diplomatic note, commending US President Donald Trump's efforts and reaffirming Lebanon's commitment to "providing the conditions and requirements necessary for success."
The address came as Israel continued military operations in Lebanon despite the April 17 truce — later extended for 45 days through indirect US-mediated negotiations. Lebanon's Health Ministry reports the death toll from attacks since March 2 has surpassed 3,400. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu recently ordered a deepening of the military incursion, with Israeli forces seizing the strategically significant Beaufort Castle.
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