Twelve medical workers were killed in a strike on a medical centre in south Lebanon Friday night, bringing the total number of healthcare staff killed in the country to 31 over the last 12 days.
Escalating Conflict
The primary healthcare facility in Burj Qalaouiyah was struck by Israeli rockets, causing it to collapse and killing doctors, paramedics, and nurses, according to the Lebanese ministry of health. The ministry stated the strike “violated all international humanitarian laws.”
The current hostilities began on March 2nd, after Hezbollah launched rockets at Israel, prompting an Israeli bombing campaign. Fighting has escalated with continued rocket fire from Hezbollah and Israeli troop movements into south Lebanon.
As of this report, at least 826 people have been killed in Lebanon by Israeli strikes, and approximately 1 million have been displaced.
Accusations and Concerns
On Saturday morning, Israeli military spokesperson Avichay Adraee accused Hezbollah of using ambulances and medical facilities for military purposes, stating Israeli forces would “act in accordance with international law” if Hezbollah did not stop. No evidence was provided to support this claim.
The Lebanese ministry of health refuted the Israeli army’s accusation, calling it a “justification for the crimes it is committing against humanity.”
Humanitarian groups have warned that such accusations could lead to further attacks on healthcare facilities in Lebanon. During a 13-month Israel-Hezbollah war in 2024, similar accusations were made by Israel without supporting evidence, resulting in the deaths of 408 healthcare workers.
Israel faced accusations of war crimes for attacks on healthcare facilities during a two-year war on Gaza, with a top prosecutor at the International Criminal Court stating claims of Hamas fighters in hospitals were “grossly exaggerated.” Gaza’s healthcare system has been largely destroyed by sustained attacks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current status of the conflict in Lebanon?
The conflict began on March 2nd when Hezbollah launched rockets at Israel, triggering an Israeli bombing campaign. Fighting has since escalated, with Hezbollah continuing rocket fire and Israeli troops invading south Lebanon.
What has been the impact on healthcare workers?
At least 31 healthcare workers have been killed in Lebanon by Israeli strikes over the past 12 days. Israel has carried out at least 37 attacks against healthcare workers and facilities since the start of the current hostilities.
What is Israel’s response to criticism regarding attacks on medical facilities?
An Israeli military spokesperson accused Hezbollah of using ambulances and medical facilities for military purposes, stating Israeli forces would “act in accordance with international law” if Hezbollah did not stop, but provided no evidence.
As the conflict continues, what steps might be taken to protect medical personnel and facilities in Lebanon?
