Lebanon's Health Crisis: 158 Attacks on Facilities, 1.2 Million Displaced Amid Conflict
November 29, 2024Since the conflict escalated in October 2023, there have been 158 attacks on healthcare facilities in Lebanon, resulting in 241 deaths and nearly 300 injuries, according to WHO data.
Health officials report over 3,760 deaths in Lebanon amid the ongoing conflict, with more than 70 fatalities recorded in Israel.
Of the attacks on healthcare, 82 occurred after September 23, coinciding with intensified Israeli bombardment targeting Hezbollah.
Approximately 1.2 million people have been displaced in Lebanon due to Israeli strikes, although a temporary ceasefire has been established, its durability remains uncertain.
If the ceasefire holds, four hospitals in Beirut and nearby areas are expected to reopen within four weeks, as stated by Dr. Abdinasir Abubakar of the WHO.
Some hospitals have sustained extensive damage that cannot be repaired quickly, prompting the need for a backup plan involving mobile clinics for displaced individuals.
The rebuilding of the health system in affected areas is complicated by the displacement of many health workers.
As winter approaches, humanitarian missions are increasingly hindered, with dwindling supplies of fuel and medicine exacerbating conditions for returning displaced individuals.
Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, head of the WHO, has highlighted the significant health needs in Lebanon, which are expected to escalate in the coming months.
WHO officials have emphasized the necessity of a permanent ceasefire that also includes Gaza, where the humanitarian situation has deteriorated significantly due to the prolonged conflict.
Dr. Tedros stated that the ultimate solution for the crisis is not merely aid but achieving lasting peace.
Nabil Tabbal from the WHO reported that nearly 10% of hospitals have been damaged, with ongoing assessments to determine which facilities can be quickly restored.
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Euronews • Nov 28, 2024
WHO: Lebanon’s health needs are ‘huge’ amid Israel-Hezbollah ceasefire