Lebanon Condemns Israeli Attack, Calls for ICC Accession

Lebanese Information Minister Paul Morcos denounced the attack that killed journalist Amal Khalil as a “crime” and a “blatant violation of international humanitarian law.” He stated on X, “With deep sorrow, we mourn journalist Amal Khalil, who was targeted by the Israeli army while carrying out her professional duty of conveying the truth in Tiri, in south Lebanon.” Morcos emphasized that Lebanon has called for weeks for the country to join the Rome Statute and recognize the jurisdiction of the International Criminal Court (ICC), according to L’Orient Today.

Lebanon and Israel are not parties to the ICC, established in 2002 by the Rome Statute. This means the ICC prosecutor cannot open an investigation without Lebanon’s accession. However, the Lebanese government can set up a commission to document serious violations, as it did during the 2024 war, according to L’Orient Today. “Any delay in this decision amounts to entrenching impunity,” Morcos added.

Israel Expands Airstrikes, Heightening Regional Tensions

Israel carried out an airstrike on Beirut for the first time since the ceasefire with Lebanon and also launched attacks in the Gaza Strip, according to 경향신문. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced on X that Israel had killed the commander of Hezbollah’s elite Radwan unit. “No terrorist can be exempt, and the long arm of Israel will seize every enemy and killer,” Netanyahu said.

Israel’s military chief, Eyal Zamir, stated that there are “no constraints on the use of force” and that the military will not step back until the security of residents in northern Israel is assured and a long-term solution is in place. The airstrikes have raised concerns that Israel’s actions could undermine ongoing U.S.-Iran ceasefire discussions, which are reportedly in their final stages, according to 경향신문.

Regional and International Reactions

Al Jazeera reported that at least 13 people were killed in the Israeli strikes in Lebanon and Gaza, though the exact toll remains unclear. The journalist Amal Khalil was among the victims. Her death has sparked international condemnation, with calls for accountability and for Lebanon to take legal action.

Lebanese officials have reiterated the need for the country to join the Rome Statute, which would allow the ICC to investigate alleged crimes committed since 2002. The Lebanese government previously established a commission during the 2024 war to document serious violations, but the lack of international legal mechanisms has hindered accountability, according to L’Orient Today.