Report alleges systematic Israeli attacks on healthcare in Lebanon
Israel has systematically targeted health workers, ambulances and hospitals in Lebanon, according to a report published on Friday by the Belgian NGO 11.11.11 in collaboration with the Lebanese Centre for Human Rights.
The report documents at least 30 separate incidents between 23 September and 23 October in which the Israeli military allegedly targeted ambulances, hospitals, medical centres, health workers and UN humanitarian personnel.
According to the findings, five ambulances were attacked in southern Lebanon on 20, 21 and 23 October. In the same month, 12 hospitals and medical centres were reportedly hit by Israeli air strikes and military operations.
More than 70 medical personnel are believed to have been killed as a result of Israeli attacks. The report also states that dozens of firefighters, humanitarian workers, members of civil society and UN personnel were either killed or injured.
Since 7 October 2023, the UN has recorded at least 162 Israeli attacks on Lebanese health facilities, killing 241 aid workers and injuring another 296, according to 11.11.11. The organisation stresses that attacks on hospitals, ambulances and health workers constitute violations of international humanitarian law.
"We are witnessing a global erosion of respect for human rights"
The NGO repeats its call for an end to Israeli impunity. "Our country must take action: impose sanctions, suspend cooperation agreements, set up an international commission of inquiry and prosecute war crimes," said spokesperson Willem Staes.
Fadel Fakih, director of the Lebanese Centre for Human Rights, added: "The war crimes committed in Lebanon must be thoroughly investigated and Israel held accountable. We are witnessing a global erosion of respect for human rights. It is our collective responsibility to stand up and defend the rights of every human being, regardless of their origin or background."
#FlandersNewsService | A view of the destruction and rescue efforts in the area of Rafik Hariri University Hospital after an Israeli air strike © PHOTO FADEL ITANI / MIDDLE EAST IMAGES / ABACAPRESS.COM
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