Posted on 06 October 2024
UN Secretary-General António Guterres delivered a grim assessment of the escalating violence and deteriorating conditions in Lebanon, warning the Security Council that “hell is breaking loose” in the country. Guterres urged the Security Council on Wednesday “to work in lock-step” to end the escalating violence between Israeli forces and Hezbollah militants across the Blue Line in southern Lebanon. The country is also grappling with an economic collapse, widespread shortages of food, fuel, and medicine, and the collapse of public services. He highlighted the suffering of Lebanon’s most vulnerable communities, urging for immediate international assistance to avoid further catastrophe.
The violence has led to a growing number of civilian casualties, with hospitals overwhelmed and unable to meet the surge in demand for medical care. Recent reports indicate that dozens have been killed and many more injured in attacks across different regions. Guterres expressed deep concern over the safety of civilians, particularly in areas where armed groups are battling for control. The Security Council was urged to take swift action, both to address the immediate humanitarian needs and to prevent Lebanon’s further descent into chaos.