Health Workers Face Significant Challenges
As thousands of displaced residents cautiously return to Southern Lebanon following a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, health authorities are grappling with immense challenges in restoring medical services. Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO), highlighted Lebanon’s escalating health needs, stating they are “huge” and expected to grow in the months ahead. The fragile peace, which was briefly established, remains uncertain, particularly after accusations by Israel that Hezbollah violated the terms of the ceasefire.
Attacks on Healthcare Facilities Intensify
The ongoing conflict, which escalated after Hezbollah’s attacks on Israel in October 2023, has devastated Lebanon’s healthcare system. WHO reports reveal that there have been 158 attacks on medical facilities, resulting in 241 deaths and close to 300 injuries among healthcare workers. Since intensified bombings began on September 23, 82 of these attacks occurred, exacerbating an already dire situation. According to health officials, more than 3,760 people have perished in Lebanon due to the conflict, compounding the challenges faced by health services.
Assessing Damage to Healthcare Infrastructure
In light of the destruction, WHO is working closely with Lebanon’s Ministry of Health to evaluate healthcare facilities and prioritize which ones can resume operations. Nabil Tabbal, a health information officer at WHO, reported that nearly 10% of hospitals sustained damage. While some facilities in Beirut may reopen within weeks if the ceasefire holds, many others face long-term repairs that may take months or longer. The team prioritizes hospitals that can quickly start accepting patients to cater to the returning populace.
Mobile Clinics and Alternative Care Solutions
To address immediate health concerns, WHO officials plan to deploy mobile clinics, which will provide vital services to those who have returned to conflict-affected areas. Dr. Abdinasir Abubakar, WHO’s representative for Lebanon, emphasized the organization’s comprehensive plan to revitalize healthcare services, although he acknowledged that achieving full operational capacity will take considerable time. The backup plan aims to ensure that essential health services are available to displaced individuals navigating the aftermath of the conflict.
A Call for Lasting Peace
As the situation grows increasingly dire with winter approaching and humanitarian efforts facing significant blockages, WHO officials called for a permanent ceasefire that extends beyond Lebanon and includes other conflict zones like Gaza. Dr. Tedros stressed that while aid is crucial, enduring peace remains the ultimate solution to alleviating the humanitarian crisis plaguing the region. The need for comprehensive conflict resolution is urgent as health services struggle to balance immediate responses with long-term recovery efforts.
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