As world leaders gather at the United Nations for their annual debate, many are expected to criticize Israel’s actions against Hezbollah, citing international humanitarian law. This set of laws is often used to condemn Israel, even as it faces non-state enemies like Hamas and Hezbollah who do not follow the rules of war.
While Israel strives to abide by international laws of war, its enemies do not. The recent targeted strike by the Israel Defense Force in Beirut, which killed a top Hezbollah commander, is seen as a legitimate military action. However, critics argue that Israel’s actions in civilian areas blur the line between combatants and non-combatants.
The IDF has been targeting civilian homes in Lebanon where Hezbollah is hiding weapons, leading to civilian casualties. The IDF has warned residents to leave these areas before bombing, but Hezbollah urges them to stay, using them as human shields. This has resulted in a high number of casualties in Lebanon and calls for international intervention to stop Israel’s actions.
Despite this, Hezbollah, not the Lebanese government, is the main party engaged in the conflict. The Lebanese Armed Forces are distinct from Hezbollah and are expected to follow international laws of war. However, Hezbollah operates outside these laws, putting civilians at risk.
The UN and some American officials have condemned Israel for violating international humanitarian law, particularly in Gaza and in the current conflict with Hezbollah. However, Israel argues that its actions target non-civilians and are in response to threats posed by these terrorist groups.
While Israel faces criticism for its military actions, groups like Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis continue to violate international laws of war with little consequence. The focus remains on Israel, despite its efforts to defend itself against these enemies.
