An Israeli airstrike targeted a functioning hospital in Nabatieh province, southern Lebanon, resulting in injuries among medical personnel.
The hospital, located in the village of Bint Jbeil, reported that nine members of its medical and nursing staff were injured, with most of the injuries being serious.
In a statement issued by the hospital, as reported by Lebanon’s National News Agency, it was revealed that the facility was struck following a warning from Israeli forces to evacuate.
Following the attack, the hospital management evacuated most of its medical and nursing staff while retaining a small number of personnel to safeguard the hospital’s property.
The escalation of violence in Lebanon has intensified amid ongoing tensions in the region. This incident marks a significant concern regarding the safety of healthcare facilities and personnel during military operations.
Hospitals and medical staff are often seen as neutral parties in conflicts, and their protection is mandated under international humanitarian law.
Lebanon has witnessed a rise in hostilities since the beginning of the recent conflict, with numerous reports of civilian casualties and damage to critical infrastructure.
The Israeli military has intensified its operations in southern Lebanon, claiming to target militant positions, but these actions have frequently resulted in collateral damage to civilian facilities.
The international community has expressed alarm over the increasing number of attacks on medical facilities, calling for adherence to humanitarian principles and the safeguarding of civilians in conflict zones. As the situation continues to unfold, the humanitarian implications for both Lebanese civilians and healthcare providers remain dire.