Hezbollah’s attacks on northern Israel from September to November 2024 posed grave risks to civilians, failing to provide adequate warnings. Human Rights Watch criticized both Hezbollah and Israel for their actions, urging an international investigation. The conflict resulted in numerous civilian casualties and substantial displacement in northern Israel, highlighting the dire need for humanitarian protections and accountability under international law.
According to Human Rights Watch, Hezbollah has not sufficiently safeguarded civilians in northern Israel during its attacks between September and November 2024. The organization documented Hezbollah’s use of explosive weapons in populated areas without providing adequate warnings to civilians before these strikes. There have been reports of Israeli attacks resulting in casualties in Lebanon after the ceasefire on November 27, 2024, with at least 59 fatalities recorded.
Adam Coogle, the deputy Middle East director at Human Rights Watch, emphasized that, despite the unlawful actions of the Israeli military, this does not excuse Hezbollah’s practice of endangering civilians by firing into populated areas in Israel. Coogle called for an international investigation into compliance with the laws of war by both Israel and Hezbollah.
Between October 7, 2023, and October 2, 2024, Israeli military data indicated that approximately 12,400 projectiles were launched from Lebanon, leading to at least 30 civilian deaths. Notably, a July 27 attack in the occupied Golan Heights claimed the lives of 12 children, believed to be linked to a Hezbollah rocket attack, which the group denied. In contrast, Israeli strikes resulted in over 4,000 fatalities in Lebanon, as reported by Lebanon’s Health Ministry.
During the specified period, Hezbollah expanded its rocket attacks deeper into northern Israel, reaching populated areas. The organization did issue warnings about evacuations via Telegram; however, such warnings lacked adequate notice for civilians to escape, deemed ineffective under international law. Between late September and November 2024, at least 15 civilians died due to these attacks.
One father recounted a tragic incident where his son was found deceased among the victims of a Hezbollah strike on October 31. The father expressed disbelief over his son’s death, illustrating the devastating human impact of the conflict. Research suggests Hezbollah’s missile capabilities include unguided artillery rockets, raising concerns about their potential accuracy and the protection of civilians during engagements.
Hezbollah’s actions severely disrupted life in northern Israel, prompting military evacuation orders and displacing over 60,000 civilians. Furthermore, significant infrastructural damage occurred in border towns, with accounts of widespread destruction and economic instability in the affected areas. Reports indicated that hundreds of schools suffered damage, and education for thousands of students was adversely affected.
The violent conflict has resulted in thousands of casualties and injuries in Lebanon, with major cities enduring widespread devastation. In light of the ongoing civilian suffering, there are pressing calls for an immediate international inquiry into the violations of international law from both parties involved. Furthermore, international humanitarian law mandates all combatants to protect civilian lives and property during operations.
Human Rights Watch advocates for adherence to international agreements aimed at protecting civilians from the effects of military actions, stressing that the current situation underscores an urgent need for accountability. The lasting cycle of violence and impunity continues to hinder peace efforts, requiring both nations to commit to humanitarian protocols to prevent future tragedies.
The recent conflict between Hezbollah and Israel has led to significant civilian casualties and infrastructural damage, with Human Rights Watch urging the need for international accountability. Both parties have failed to adhere to established laws of war, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis. Immediate international investigation and enforcement of humanitarian law principles are essential to mitigate further civilian harm and prevent future hostilities.
Original Source: www.miragenews.com
