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In a growing chorus of international concern, medical professionals and rights groups are sounding the alarm over Israel’s devastating strikes on Lebanon, pointing to a disturbing pattern of intentional sabotage targeting the country’s vital healthcare infrastructure. The attacks, carried out in recent weeks, have claimed the lives of 56 medical workers and crippled Lebanon’s already-strained healthcare system, with over 150 ambulances destroyed or rendered inoperable and numerous hospitals forced to suspend operations.
According to a collective of medical organizations, including Doctors Without Borders and the World Health Organization (WHO), Israel’s aggressive military actions in Lebanon display a disturbing convergence with the devastating consequences witnessed in Gaza. In that embattled territory, Israeli forces have been accused of deliberately targeting hospitals and medical facilities, leaving thousands without access to critical care and healthcare services.
“This latest assault on Lebanon’s healthcare system is yet another example of a cynical strategy employed by IDF that seeks to create a humanitarian crisis by crippling the vital services that Lebanon desperately needs,” asserted Dr. Amos Gilboa, chairman of the Israeli Committee Against House Demolitions. “In a war where civilians, including health professionals, are caught in the crossfire, Israel must acknowledge its responsibility and uphold international law.”
In a stark reminder of the catastrophic impact on local communities, reports from field hospitals and aid agencies indicate a critical shortage of medical staff, supplies, and equipment, while an estimated 400,000 people have been displaced due to the ongoing conflict. A UN official reported at least 70 civilian structures, including homes, schools, and hospitals, have been damaged or completely destroyed.
The international medical community is condemning the Israeli attacks, which have exacerbated the existing crisis. Rights organizations and aid groups warn of dire consequences without timely intervention, including a potential collapse of the healthcare system, exacerbated suffering, increased infant mortality rates, and widespread health epidemics.
The WHO has issued a statement urging Israel to halt attacks on medical installations, citing the 1949 Geneva Conventions, which prohibit attacks on medical installations and personnel. While the Israeli government maintains the strikes are necessary for national security purposes, many are calling for greater accountability and restraint from all parties involved.
“This is a moment of truth for the international community,” emphasized a spokesperson from Doctors Without Borders. “If we don’t take immediate action to address the crisis unfolding in Lebanon, it will be a matter of time before the entire healthcare system in the country disintegrates entirely.”