Iran warns Gaza-style destruction could recur in southern Lebanon

Iran's ambassador and permanent representative to the United Nations Office in Geneva, Ali Bahreini, has warned that the pattern of destruction and forced displacement witnessed in Gaza could be repeated in southern Lebanon, according to Iran's state news agency IRNA.

In comments carried by IRNA, Bahreini said the scale of devastation and the displacement of civilians seen in the Palestinian territory risked being replicated in Lebanese territory near the border with Israel, an area that has repeatedly come under fire during rounds of escalation between Israel and armed groups based in Lebanon.

The Iranian envoy called for international accountability, urging the international community and UN bodies to take steps aimed at preventing a similar humanitarian crisis from unfolding in southern Lebanon. His remarks reflect a position Tehran has voiced repeatedly since the conflict in Gaza escalated, framing the situation as part of a broader regional pattern.

Context of regional tensions

Southern Lebanon has been the site of recurring exchanges of fire in recent years, with civilian communities on both sides of the border affected by the fighting. International organisations have previously documented displacement and damage to infrastructure in the area during periods of heightened conflict.

Bahreini's comments come as Iran continues to position itself as a vocal critic of Israeli military actions in the region, both at the United Nations and through its state media. Iran does not recognise Israel and has long supported armed groups and political movements opposed to it across the Middle East.

The warning has not been independently corroborated by UN officials or other international bodies, and no immediate response was issued by Israeli authorities to the remarks reported by IRNA. The statement adds to a wider debate at the United Nations over civilian protection and accountability mechanisms in ongoing regional conflicts.