Since October 2023, Lebanon has experienced a catastrophic escalation of Israeli attacks targeting its healthcare system, leading to the highest fatality rate among healthcare workers and patients in any active conflict zone worldwide, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).
As of November 21, 2024, nearly half of all recorded Israeli attacks in Lebanon have resulted in fatalities, exacerbating the country’s already fragile medical infrastructure and significantly affecting its most vulnerable populations.
Israel Targeting Healthcare Workers and Facilities
Of the 137 recorded Israeli attacks on Lebanon, 65 have resulted in fatalities among healthcare workers or patients, marking the highest fatality rate for healthcare-related attacks in any active conflict zone.
Nearly 50% of these attacks in Lebanon have been fatal, a stark contrast to the global average of 13.3% observed in regions like Ukraine, Sudan, and the occupied Palestinian territory (oPt).
To date, 226 healthcare workers and patients have been killed, with 199 others injured, underscoring the vulnerability of medical personnel and patients. Disturbingly, 68% of the attacks have targeted healthcare workers directly, and 63% have affected ambulances and medical transport.
These assaults have not only caused immediate loss of life but also disrupted vital healthcare services, leaving women, children, and the elderly at greater risk.
The Strain on Lebanon’s Healthcare System
The healthcare system in Lebanon, already struggling due to political and economic instability, has been further overwhelmed by these attacks. Since the onset of the Israeli attacks, 15 out of Lebanon’s 153 hospitals have ceased operations or are only partially functional.
In regions like Nabatieh, 40% of hospital bed capacity has been lost, severely hindering the country’s ability to provide essential care.
As Dr. Hanan Balkhy, WHO Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean, stated, “The scale of these attacks cripples a health system when those whose lives depend on it need it the most.”
Violation of International Humanitarian Law
The targeting of healthcare facilities and personnel represents a clear violation of international humanitarian law, which mandates the protection of medical services during armed conflict.
The World Health Organization (WHO) and other global entities have condemned these attacks and called for stronger enforcement of legal protections to safeguard health workers and medical infrastructure.
Dr. Balkhy stressed that accountability for these violations is essential to prevent the normalization of such actions and protect civilian lives.
International Humanitarian Aid and the Need for Action
As the crisis in Lebanon deepens, international organizations have stepped up to provide critical support. By Nov. 18, 2024, France had delivered nearly 32 tons of medical supplies, food, and educational materials—part of a broader commitment that has exceeded 60 tons since October 2024.
Similarly, the European Union pledged an additional €30 million, bringing its total humanitarian aid for the year to more than €104 million.
Despite these substantial efforts, significant challenges remain. Israeli attacks continue to devastate Lebanon’s healthcare infrastructure, severely hindering the ability of organizations like the Lebanese Red Cross to deliver much-needed relief. Security threats and restricted access to affected regions further complicate aid delivery.
In light of these challenges, donations to local organizations play a vital role in ensuring essential supplies reach the most vulnerable populations.
According to the World Health Organization, the destruction of hospitals and the loss of medical personnel are already having a profound and lasting impact on Lebanon’s public health system.
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