Lebanon’s healthcare system teeters on the brink of collapse due to Israeli airstrikes targeting hospitals and medical facilities. Israeli Strikes on Lebanon Hospitals have resulted in at least four hospitals suspending operations and 37 facilities shutting down in just two weeks. The World Health Organization reports that dozens of medical staff have been killed, including 28 healthcare workers in the past 24 hours.
Dr. Mounes Kalakish, director of the Marjayoun Hospital, described the devastating impact of the strikes. “The nurses and doctors were terrified,” he said after an airstrike hit two ambulances and killed seven paramedics. This forced the hospital to close, leaving the region without critical medical services.
The Israeli army claims Hezbollah uses medical vehicles to transport fighters and weapons, justifying their strikes. However, hospital staff and aid organizations dispute this claim, emphasizing the catastrophic consequences for civilians.
Rita Suleiman, nursing director at Saint Therese Hospital, recounted the harrowing experience of being struck by an airstrike. “We struggled to carry on, but it was impossible,” she said. Other hospitals, like Tebnine, continue to operate with severely limited services.
Israeli forces targeted medical centers in central Beirut, killing nine and wounding 14. The Lebanese Red Cross reported four paramedics injured in a strike despite coordinating with the Israeli army.
Gabriel Karlsson of the British Red Cross stressed, “Health and aid workers must be protected.” World Health Organization Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus condemned the attacks, citing 28 healthcare worker deaths.
Lebanon’s Health Minister Firass Abiad reported 97 rescue worker fatalities since October, with over 40 killed in just three days.
As Israeli Strikes on Lebanon Hospitals continue, international organizations urge protection for medical staff and facilities.
Healthcare staff fear for their safety, and the international community must act to protect Lebanon’s healthcare system.
