Beirut: A recent report by the Euro-Med Human Rights Monitor has made serious allegations against Israeli forces in southern Lebanon. According to the report, incidents have emerged in which troops entered civilians’ homes during military operations and looted their property. Such actions constitute a clear violation of international humanitarian law and may be considered war crimes.
The organization, citing multiple eyewitness testimonies in its investigation, reported that soldiers broke down the doors of homes to gain entry and stole cash, gold, and other valuables. The report also stated that these incidents are not isolated, but are being repeated on a wide scale and are occurring with the knowledge of military leadership, suggesting that this has become an organized and systematic practice.
According to Euro-Med, these claims are also supported by media reports showing soldiers transporting civilian property using military vehicles. This situation highlights a lack of accountability in the region and an environment of impunity.
The report also includes statements from affected civilians, who said that after the raids their belongings were stolen, their property was damaged, and in many cases they were forcibly displaced from their homes.
The organization also highlighted that similar incidents have previously been recorded in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank, where civilians’ property was taken during military operations or at checkpoints, sometimes through threats or the use of force.
Euro-Med clarified that looting is prohibited under international law and is considered a serious crime, particularly under the Fourth Geneva Convention and the Rome Statute.
The report calls on the international community to ensure an independent and impartial investigation into these allegations and to hold those responsible accountable. It also urges steps such as allowing the International Criminal Court to investigate these cases, applying universal jurisdiction, imposing international sanctions, and suspending military cooperation with Israel in order to end the prevailing climate of impunity.