WHO Verifies 190 Attacks on Healthcare in Lebanon Since March Escalation

GENEVA (Reuters) - The World Health Organization verified 190 attacks on healthcare facilities and personnel in Lebanon since the Israeli escalation began in March, marking a significant deterioration in the safety of medical services across the country.

The United Nations health agency released the findings on Monday, detailing a pattern of strikes that have targeted hospitals, clinics, and ambulances throughout the conflict zone. The data covers the period from the onset of the intensified hostilities in March through the present, capturing a sustained period of violence that has severely impacted the delivery of essential medical care.

The attacks have resulted in the destruction of critical infrastructure and the displacement of medical staff. Facilities in southern Lebanon, which have borne the brunt of the fighting, reported the highest concentration of incidents. The WHO noted that the nature of the strikes has varied, including direct hits on buildings, shelling that damaged operational areas, and incidents involving the targeting of medical personnel attempting to evacuate patients.

Healthcare providers on the ground have described a collapsing system, with many hospitals forced to operate with limited power, water, and supplies. The cumulative effect of the 190 verified incidents has left thousands of patients without access to treatment for chronic conditions, trauma care, and emergency services. The organization emphasized that the attacks violate international humanitarian law, which mandates the protection of medical facilities and workers during armed conflict.

The escalation in March marked a sharp increase in military operations, leading to widespread displacement and a humanitarian crisis. As fighting intensified, the protection of civilian infrastructure became increasingly difficult, with medical sites frequently located in areas of active combat. The WHO has called for an immediate cessation of attacks on healthcare to prevent further loss of life and to allow for the resumption of normal medical operations.

Local medical associations have echoed these concerns, stating that the situation is untenable. They report that the loss of equipment and the departure of skilled staff have compromised the ability to treat war injuries and routine health needs. The organization is currently assessing the full extent of the damage to determine the resources required for reconstruction and the restoration of services.

The verification process involved a review of incident reports and damage assessments conducted in the field. The final count of 190 represents confirmed cases where evidence was sufficient to establish the nature of the attack and the target. Ongoing hostilities mean that the number of incidents continues to rise, with new reports emerging daily from the front lines.

Questions remain regarding the long-term impact on Lebanon's healthcare system and the timeline for recovery. The international community is under pressure to facilitate access for humanitarian aid and to ensure the safety of medical workers. As the conflict persists, the risk of further attacks on healthcare remains high, threatening to deepen the humanitarian crisis in the region.