UN chief says civilian objects should not be weaponised, warns of escalation

United Nations secretary general Antonio Guterres said on Wednesday that civilian objects should not be weaponised, commenting on the pager blasts that have hit Lebanon since yesterday. 

“I think it’s very important that there is effective control of civilian objects, not to weaponise civilian objects - that should be a rule that… governments should be able to implement,” Guterres said at a press briefing at UN headquarters.

“As important as the event in itself, is the indication that this event confirms that there is a serious risk of a dramatic escalation in Lebanon - and everything must be done to avoid the escalation,” he added.