Israeli Airstrikes in Lebanon Claim Lives of Over 90 Rescuers and Healthcare Workers

Friday 04 October 2024 - 07:33

In a devastating turn of events, more than 40 rescuers and firefighters have been killed in Lebanon over the past three days due to intensifying Israeli Occupation Forces (IOF) airstrikes, according to Lebanon's Health Minister Firass Abiad. This escalation is part of a broader conflict between IOF and Hezbollah, a militant group based in southern Lebanon.

Speaking at a press conference, Minister Abiad revealed that a total of 97 paramedics and firefighters have been killed, with 188 others wounded since the border conflict reignited in October. The overall death toll in Lebanon has reached 1,974, including 127 children, with more than 9,350 wounded.

The situation for healthcare workers is growing increasingly dire. The World Health Organization (WHO) reported that 28 healthcare professionals were killed in Lebanon within the past 24 hours. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, addressing an online briefing, said the violence is severely limiting essential medical services.

"Many health workers are fleeing their posts due to the relentless bombardments, leaving critical gaps in trauma care and healthcare continuity," Ghebreyesus said.

The WHO also announced that it would be unable to deliver a planned shipment of medical supplies to Lebanon due to ongoing flight restrictions.

Meanwhile, in Gaza, the IOF have intensified their assault, with the Ministry of Health reporting that at least 99 civilians have been killed and 169 injured in the past 24 hours alone. The ministry noted that many of the dead remain trapped beneath rubble, with rescue operations hindered by continuous airstrikes and inaccessible roads.

The IOF conflict, now in its 363rd day, has claimed the lives of 41,788 people and left 96,794 others injured, according to health officials. The ongoing violence shows no sign of abating, with civilian casualties mounting as diplomatic efforts to broker peace stall.

The situation underscores the urgent need for international intervention to protect civilians and healthcare workers, who are increasingly becoming targets in this escalating conflict.