Lebanon Hospitals Suspend Services Due to Israeli Bombing

In a troubling escalation of violence, at least four hospitals in Lebanon have announced the suspension of their services due to ongoing Israeli bombardment. This alarming situation has unfolded as Hezbollah-affiliated rescuers reported that 11 of their personnel were killed in recent Israeli raids in southern Lebanon. The conflict has intensified, raising urgent concerns about the safety and well-being of civilians caught in the crossfire.

On Friday, October 4, Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati made a heartfelt plea to the international community, urging them to pressure Israel to allow rescue and relief teams access to bombed sites. He emphasized the dire need for these teams to be able to move casualties, especially as several dozen emergency personnel have lost their lives in the past few days. The situation is becoming increasingly critical, with hospitals struggling to provide care amidst the chaos.

One of the hospitals affected, Sainte Therese Hospital, located on the outskirts of Beirut's southern suburbs, reported "huge damage". The hospital stated that the targeting of the vicinity by Israeli warplanes on Thursday led to the complete halt of its services. This information was shared through the official National News Agency (NNA), highlighting the severe impact of the ongoing conflict on healthcare facilities.

In South Lebanon, the Mais al-Jabal hospital, situated near the border with Israel, also announced the suspension of all its departments. The hospital cited ongoing "enemy targeting" since last October, along with significant issues related to supply lines and staff access, as reasons for this drastic measure. The situation is dire, and the ability to provide medical care is severely compromised.

Furthermore, the director of Marjayoun governmental hospital, Mouenes Kalakesh, revealed that an Israeli air strike targeted ambulances at the main entrance of the facility. Tragically, this attack resulted in the deaths of paramedics who were attempting to bring the wounded to safety. Kalakesh noted that staff shortages, exacerbated by the bombardment, have forced the hospital to close its doors, leaving many without critical medical assistance.

The Islamic Health Committee emergency service, which is affiliated with Hezbollah, reported that seven emergency personnel lost their lives due to what they termed "direct Zionist aggression on emergency teams" at the Marjayoun hospital. Additionally, four other emergency workers were killed in two separate attacks elsewhere in southern Lebanon. These incidents underscore the perilous conditions faced by those trying to provide aid in a war-torn region.

The ongoing conflict in Lebanon serves as a stark reminder of the human cost of war. As hospitals suspend services and emergency personnel face life-threatening dangers, the need for international intervention and humanitarian assistance becomes increasingly urgent. The situation calls for a collective response to ensure that those affected by the violence receive the care and support they desperately need. In times of crisis, it is crucial for the global community to stand in solidarity with those suffering and to advocate for peace and stability in the region.