Dozens of Health Workers Killed in Lebanon Over the Past Day, According to WHO

By Sriparna Roy and Emma Farge

In Geneva, it was reported that at least 28 medics on duty have lost their lives in the last 24 hours in Lebanon, amidst ongoing airstrikes and troop deployments by Israel targeting Hezbollah in an intensifying conflict. The Director-General of the World Health Organization, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, made this announcement during an online press briefing, emphasizing the urgent need for enhanced protections for healthcare workers.

Many healthcare professionals are opting not to report for duty or are fleeing their workplaces due to the ongoing bombardments, significantly hampering trauma management and the continuity of health services, Tedros stated.

Dr. Abdinasir Abubakar, the WHO’s representative in Lebanon, highlighted that the medics killed had been actively engaged in providing aid to the wounded. According to Lebanon’s health ministry, nearly 2,000 individuals have been killed since the escalation of Israeli attacks over the past year, including 127 children. The WHO has confirmed that among the casualties are 73 healthcare workers.

Dr. Abubakar noted that while the capacity for mass casualty management exists, the system is nearing its limits. Hospitals have already begun evacuating patients due to safety concerns.

Additionally, the WHO has faced challenges in delivering a significant shipment of trauma and medical supplies to Lebanon, as flight restrictions have impeded transportation efforts.

Amid rising tensions in the Middle East, air travel has been disrupted, with numerous airlines canceling or rerouting flights and causing extended delays at regional airports. The WHO is currently working with various countries to facilitate the delivery of emergency supplies to Lebanon and is considering alternative routes, such as overland or maritime options.