The British government has condemned an Israeli air strike in southern Lebanon that killed Mona Khalil, a 54-year-old conservationist known for her work protecting endangered sea turtles on the country's coastline. The Foreign Office issued a statement expressing deep regret over the incident, which occurred on Tuesday near the coastal village of Naqoura. Khalil, a biologist and founder of the Lebanese Sea Turtle Conservation Society, was killed when a missile struck a vehicle she was travelling in, according to local sources.
The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) said they were investigating the incident but declined to provide immediate details. A Foreign Office spokesperson said: 'The United Kingdom deplores the loss of civilian life and urges all parties to adhere to international humanitarian law. We call for a full and transparent investigation into this tragic event.
' The strike comes amid heightened tensions along the Israel-Lebanon border, with the IDF conducting operations against Hezbollah positions. Khalil's work had earned her international recognition, including awards from the United Nations Environment Programme. Her death has drawn condemnation from environmental groups and diplomats, who describe her as a symbol of peaceful conservation efforts in a region often overshadowed by conflict.
The UK has maintained a position of supporting Israel's right to self-defence while calling for restraint to avoid civilian casualties.
