A Call for Humanitarian Protection and Adherence to International Law in Southern Lebanon
Upholding human dignity, safeguarding civilians, and affirming the rule of international law in times of conflict
Official Statement of the Sovereign Imperial and Royal House of Ghassan
31 March 2026
The Sovereign Imperial and Royal House of Ghassan, an international non-governmental organization in Special Consultative Status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) and a recognized partner of the Republic of Lebanon, issues the following statement concerning the current situation in southern Lebanon.
The Royal Council, together with its advisors and key Special Envoys, has carefully reviewed recent developments in Lebanon and considered them in light of international humanitarian law, including the Geneva Conventions and customary international law.
Grounded in its historic mission of humanitarian service, peacebuilding, and the promotion of human dignity, and in continuity with the values embodied by the House's historical faith roots in the Maronite Christian tradition, as well as the muru’ah of this ancient House dating back to 220 CE, the Royal House expresses its deep concern regarding the humanitarian conditions affecting civilian populations in southern Lebanon.
The Royal Council notes, in particular:
Reports of significant damage to civilian homes, agricultural lands, religious sites, and essential infrastructure in affected areas.
The displacement of civilian populations across multiple towns and villages, with ongoing challenges related to safety, stability, and access to basic needs.
Limitations affecting displaced persons' ability to return to their homes in a timely and secure manner.
Incidents impacting civilian populations and objects raise broader humanitarian considerations under established international legal standards.
Such developments underscore the importance of strict adherence by all parties to the principles of international humanitarian law, including the protection of civilians, the preservation of civilian infrastructure, and the obligation to minimize harm in situations of conflict.
While the Royal House of Ghassan does not serve in a judicial or adjudicative capacity, its standing within the international community and its consultative engagement with the United Nations call it to encourage a principled and humanitarian response.
Accordingly, the Royal House respectfully calls for:
Independent and transparent review mechanisms, consistent with international standards, to ensure accountability and clarity regarding the situation on the ground.
The continued protection of civilian populations, with particular attention to vulnerable communities.
Conditions that enable the safe, voluntary, and dignified return of displaced persons in accordance with international legal norms.
The safeguarding of religious, cultural, and historical sites, which represent the shared heritage of humanity.
Renewed diplomatic engagement and dialogue, aimed at reducing tensions and fostering stability in the region.
The Royal House reaffirms its longstanding relationship with the people of Lebanon and its commitment to supporting humanitarian, cultural, and diplomatic initiatives that contribute to peace, reconciliation, and the well-being of all communities.
At this moment, the consistent application of international law, accompanied by a shared commitment to human dignity, remains essential for the pursuit of a just and lasting peace.
H.R.H. Prince Gharios El Chemor of Ghassan, Al’Numan VIII
Issued by the Grand Chancellery
Sovereign Imperial and Royal House of Ghassan