WHO "Lebanon Medical System Rapidly Collapsing... 100 out of 207 Facilities Closed"

The World Health Organization (WHO) pointed out on the 16th (local time) that the medical system in Lebanon, a battleground between Israel and Hezbollah, is rapidly collapsing.

According to WHO, since the 23rd of last month, the Israeli military has conducted intensive airstrikes in southern and eastern Lebanon, as well as the capital Beirut, leading to a surge in the closure of medical facilities.

WHO stated, "There were 207 primary healthcare centers and clinics in the conflict area, but 100 have closed," adding, "Five major hospitals have been damaged or heavily shelled in nearby areas, forcing both medical staff and patients to evacuate. Additionally, five more hospitals have been evacuated with only some medical personnel remaining."

[Image source=Yonhap News]

Dr. Hanan Balkhy, WHO Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean, said, "The current situation in Lebanon is astonishing," and pointed out, "The system has been severely weakened at a time when medical services are most needed."

The human toll among medical personnel is also severe. WHO explained, "Since the 17th of last month, 23 attacks have targeted Lebanese medical facilities under our engagement, resulting in 72 deaths and 43 injuries among medical staff and patients."

It further elaborated, "Lebanese hospitals are facing unprecedented numbers of injured people while coping with adverse conditions such as shortages of medical personnel, depletion of medical supplies, and lack of facilities."