Urgent Appeal for Healthcare Protection Amid Escalating Conflict in Lebanon

The International Lebanese Medical Association issued an urgent appeal on Saturday to the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations (UN), calling for immediate action to address the impact of Israeli military actions on Lebanon’s healthcare system, Anadolu Agency revealed.

The appeal follows confirmation from the official Lebanese news agency that several hospitals, including Marjayoun Governmental Hospital, Mays al-Jabal Governmental Hospital, and Salah Ghandoor Hospital, are no longer operational due to recent attacks.

The association emphasized the need for intervention to facilitate the evacuation of patients and medical personnel from Salah Ghandoor Hospital, highlighting the importance of protecting healthcare workers and facilities. They condemned the ongoing violence against the medical sector, asserting that it violates international human rights and the Geneva Conventions.

Lebanese Health Minister Firas Abiad reported that since September 23, Israeli airstrikes have resulted in the deaths of 97 medical and emergency personnel and have damaged over 10 hospitals. The conflict has escalated since Israel’s military response to Hamas’ attack last October, leading to over 41,800 deaths in Gaza, primarily among women and children.

In Lebanon, at least 2,011 people have been killed, over 9,500 injured, and approximately 1.2 million displaced, according to local authorities. The international community has raised concerns that the situation could lead to a broader regional conflict.