Lebanese Government Denounces Strikes on Southern Heritage Cities

(MENAFN) Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam on Thursday strongly criticized the continued Israeli attacks on the southern cities of Tyre and Nabatieh, describing the targeting of the areas, damage to historical sites, and pressure on local residents as a form of “collective punishment” prohibited under international law.

“Nothing can justify the continued attacks targeting the regions of Tyre and Nabatieh and the destruction of their historic landmarks, nor the ongoing threats against our peaceful residents there, nor the repeated calls for them to leave their homes and livelihoods,” he said in a statement.

Salam said the latest developments further underscore Lebanon’s commitment to securing an “immediate ceasefire, full Israeli withdrawal from our country, and extending state authority over all Lebanese territory,” enabling displaced citizens to return to their communities “safely and with dignity.”

He added that Lebanese authorities are continuing diplomatic efforts to rally both regional and international backing in support of these objectives.

“This is our national duty and our unwavering right that we will not compromise under any circumstances,” he said.

In a separate statement, Culture Minister Ghassan Salame said he had reached out to cultural officials and international organizations worldwide to seek greater protection for archaeological and heritage sites in southern Lebanon, particularly those located in Tyre and at Beaufort Castle.

According to reports, Salame stressed that several of these locations are covered by enhanced protection measures through the UNESCO and should be shielded from aerial bombardment and artillery fire.

Earlier, Lebanese Foreign Minister Youssef Raggi also urged an immediate end to Israeli military attacks on the historic city of Tyre.

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