Beirut: MP Melhem Khalaf on Thursday issued an urgent appeal to state officials, urging immediate action to mobilize international support and open humanitarian corridors to civilians trapped in southern border areas, warning of catastrophic consequences if delays persist.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, Khalaf emphasized the need to act immediately, highlighting the presence of Tom Fletcher, United Nations Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator, in Lebanon. Khalaf called for an urgent meeting with Fletcher to advocate for the opening of humanitarian corridors to the besieged southern border villages of Lebanon.
Khalaf also urged the activation of Lebanon's international relations network without delay. He suggested summoning the ambassadors of the Five-Nation Committee, ambassadors of friendly countries, and even the Apostolic Nuncio, holding them accountable for their national responsibilities. He emphasized that Lebanese authorities must not remain idle while civilians are besieged and their lives are in jeopardy.
He referenced the Fourth Geneva Convention and relevant United Nations resolutions, which mandate the protection of civilians and guarantee unimpeded access to humanitarian aid. Khalaf warned that any delay in action would result in catastrophic national and humanitarian consequences, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.