UNESCO says it is deeply alarmed by damage to heritage places in Lebanon as fighting grows worse. Experts have verified harm at Chama' Citadel, and strikes were reported close to Beaufort Castle. Both places hold enhanced protection, the strongest legal shield a site can receive under a 1954 treaty on culture in wartime. UNESCO also worries about Tyre, a World Heritage Site, because recent events could expose it to more damage and looting.
The organisation strongly condemns unlawful attacks on cultural property. Under enhanced protection, a site must not be attacked or used for military purposes. When such places are damaged, communities lose shared spaces that help them recover and stay united. UNESCO and its office in Beirut will keep working with Lebanese authorities to assess the damage and strengthen urgent safeguarding measures.