Israel may commit ‘new genocide’ in Lebanon using Iran war as pretext, Turkey warns

Turkey has expressed serious concerns that Israel's ongoing strikes in Lebanon could lead to a "new genocide" under the pretext of fighting Hezbollah. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan urged the international community to intervene, citing Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu's actions. The conflict escalated after Hezbollah attacked Israel in response to the killing of Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei during US-Israeli strikes on Iran, drawing Lebanon into the wider conflict. According to Lebanon's health ministry, Israeli strikes have resulted in 826 deaths, including women and children, and over 2,000 injuries. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, during a visit to Beirut, stated that diplomatic channels remain open to end the war and called for international support for Lebanon.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres visited Lebanon on March 14, 2026, amid ongoing conflict with Israel, calling for diplomacy as the only solution. He warned of a potential wasteland in southern Lebanon and the devastation of southern Beirut due to Israeli attacks and evacuation orders. Guterres launched a $325 million appeal to support over 800,000 internally displaced Lebanese people following Hezbollah's attack on Israel on March 2. The UN is working to bring all parties to the negotiating table, while Lebanese officials are preparing a delegation for talks with Israel. Guterres also condemned attacks on UN peacekeepers.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres stated in Beirut on Saturday that diplomatic solutions are still possible to end the war between Israel and Hezbollah. He urged the international community to support Lebanon and emphasized that there is no military solution. Guterres highlighted the availability of diplomatic channels, including his special coordinator for Lebanon and key member states, to bring parties to the table. The conflict escalated after Hezbollah attacked Israel following the killing of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Guterres condemned attacks against UNIFIL peacekeepers, stating they are unacceptable and may constitute war crimes, referencing the recent wounding of three peacekeepers. He affirmed efforts to de-escalate the situation and cease hostilities.