The United Nations human rights chief, Volker Türk, expressed deep concern over the Israeli strike that took place near Beirut's Rafik Hariri University Hospital on Monday. The attack resulted in the tragic loss of at least 18 lives, with dozens more sustaining injuries and causing significant damage to the hospital.
Türk emphasized the importance of all parties involved in a conflict to take necessary precautions to prevent harm to civilians and healthcare facilities. He highlighted that under international humanitarian law, hospitals, ambulances, and medical personnel are granted special protection due to their critical role in saving lives.
Rafik Hariri University Hospital, described as one of the primary medical facilities in the Beirut area, was severely impacted by the strike. Türk stressed the need for thorough and prompt investigations into any incidents that affect hospitals to ensure accountability.
It was noted that the strike at Rafik Hariri University Hospital occurred outside the area covered by evacuation orders issued by the Israeli military. The Israel Defense Forces claimed that the target of the strike was a 'Hezbollah terrorist target.'
The United Nations human rights chief's statement underscores the importance of upholding international humanitarian law and protecting essential healthcare services during times of conflict. The incident near Rafik Hariri University Hospital serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of attacks on medical facilities and the urgent need for accountability and respect for human rights.
