South Lebanon attacks strain Lebanese healthcare sector

Israeli attacks in South Lebanon are severely straining the Lebanese healthcare sector, according to Hisham Fawaz, head of the Directorate of Hospitals and Dispensaries at the Ministry of Public Health. The conflict has resulted in the loss of three critical medical facilities: the state hospital in Bint Jbeil, the state hospital in Mays al-Jabal, and the Martyr Salah Gandour Hospital in Bint Jbeil.

The destruction of these facilities has shifted the burden to hospitals in more interior regions, including the state hospital in Tibnin, and hospitals in Nabatieh and Tyre. Additionally, the displacement of populations from conflict zones is increasing the pressure on remaining medical institutions.

Fawaz highlighted an urgent need for sustainable support to provide essential medicines, medical supplies, and equipment. The emergency medical services sector is particularly vulnerable, as previous conflicts have resulted in casualties among healthcare workers. Furthermore, emergency response volunteer organizations have lost numerous centers, ambulances, and fire vehicles. International cooperation is cited as a vital component for the restoration of damaged hospitals and the continuity of health services.