An Israel Defense Forces (IDF) airstrike earlier today destroyed the municipal headquarters in Nabatieh, Lebanon, killing six people and injuring more than 40 others. Among those killed is Nabatieh Mayor Ahmed Kahil, who was in the the public building for a municipal council meeting to address service and relief for civilians as the IDF offensive in southern Lebanon continues.
In response to the strike, Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati alleged the IDF “intentionally targeted a meeting of the municipal council to discuss the city’s service and relief situation.”
The UN responded to the strikes, urging a ceasefire and called for Israel and Lebanon to reach a diplomatic solution, stating, “It is time for all parties to cease fire immediately to allow for diplomatic solutions.”
UN Special Coordinator for Lebanon Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert noted the IDF attack on civilians and civilian infrastructure follows other incidents, and alleged Israel’s actions violate international law, writing in a statement:
Today, Israeli airstrikes hit the town of Nabatieh in southern Lebanon, yet again. The Lebanese Ministry of Health has confirmed that five people have been killed in the attack, though this number may rise as rubble is cleared. Lebanese authorities also confirmed that the town’s municipal building was hit, with alarming reports that the Mayor of Nabatieh is among the dead.
This attack follows other incidents in which civilians and civilian infrastructure have been targeted across Lebanon. Today’s reported killing of humanitarian first responder is, tragically, part of this pattern.
Violations of international humanitarian law are utterly unacceptable. Civilians and civilian infrastructure must be protected at all times.
Hennis-Plasschaert continued, stating military solutions will not bring safety or security to either Israel or Lebanon, maintaining a diplomatic solution is needed to achieve regional stability:
