GENEVA: The World Health Organization (WHO) expressed deep concern on Friday regarding Israeli attacks targeting healthcare workers and facilities in Lebanon amid the ongoing conflict with Hezbollah.
WHO spokeswoman Margaret Harris reported a troubling rise in violence, stating, “We have recorded 102 deaths and 83 injuries among health workers in such attacks.”
While the WHO tracks these incidents, it does not assign blame. Harris said that 55 attacks have been verified, but the Ministry of Health suggests the actual numbers are higher, as many healthcare workers are harmed while off duty. She highlighted that the healthcare system in Lebanon is already under significant strain.
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“Health workers are overworked and displaced, and we continue to lose them at a time when they are needed most,” Harris emphasized, reiterating that healthcare facilities and personnel should not be targeted. The ongoing assaults have exacerbated the challenges faced by Lebanon’s health system, which is already struggling due to economic hardships and difficulties in securing fuel for hospital generators.
“Accessing healthcare is a real struggle for everyone in Lebanon, particularly in areas where hospitals have been attacked,” she added. The healthcare system is overwhelmed with casualties and bears a heavy burden.
Since the escalation of hostilities on September 23, which Hezbollah has characterized as support for Hamas, the conflict has resulted in at least 1,829 deaths in Lebanon, according to an AFP tally. Moreover, cross-border fire from Lebanon killed seven people in Israel on Thursday, including four Thai nationals. Israel’s military reported that 37 soldiers have died in Lebanon since ground operations commenced on September 30.
