The United Nations has raised alarms over security risks in southern Lebanon, particularly due to the widespread presence of unexploded ordnance and other explosive remnants of war. Deputy UN spokesman Farhan Haq told reporters on Wednesday that local authorities in several villages have issued warnings following reports of unexploded ordnance.
UN partners alarmed by lingering dangers
Haq stated that UN partners on the ground are increasingly alarmed by the lingering dangers. "Our partners warn that these hazards continue to endanger civilians and pose a serious obstacle to safe and sustainable returns," he said. He stressed that the situation continues to obstruct efforts by displaced families to return home.
Call for civilian protection
"We continue to call for the protection of civilians and for conditions that allow displaced families to return home voluntarily, safely and with dignity," Haq added. The warning comes as Israel continues to occupy areas in southern Lebanon, some held for decades and others seized during the 2023-2024 war. During its latest offensive, Israeli forces advanced more than 10 kilometers (6 miles) into Lebanese territory.
Casualties and displacement
According to Lebanese figures, since March 2, Israel's offensive in Lebanon has killed 4,192 victims, wounded 12,171, and displaced more than 1 million people. The UN emphasizes that the unexploded ordnance not only endangers lives but also hampers the safe return of displaced families, prolonging the humanitarian crisis in the region.
