WHO Urges Global Support for Lebanon Amid Ongoing Crises and Rising Violence

In a pressing appeal, the World Health Organization (WHO) representative in Beirut, Dr. Abdinasir Abubakar, has called on the international community to extend aid to Lebanon, which is grappling with multiple crises exacerbated by the spillover from the Israeli-Gaza conflict. This comes as reports detail fresh Israeli airstrikes in southern Lebanon.

Dr. Abubakar highlighted the WHO’s efforts to support Lebanon’s Ministry of Health, particularly in the wake of a series of electronic device explosions that recently rocked the nation. On September 17, multiple detonations involving pagers and walkie-talkies led to civilian casualties, including children, prompting a vow of retaliation from Hezbollah.

At a recent briefing, UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric expressed concern over escalating tensions, stating, “We are very concerned at the heightened escalation across the Blue Line, including the deadly strike we saw in Beirut today.” He underscored the urgent need for a cessation of hostilities to prevent further catastrophe.

As of Thursday evening, the Ministry of Health reported 37 fatalities and over 3,000 injuries, with hospitals struggling to manage the influx of patients. Dr. Abubakar described the recent days as “unprecedented,” noting the rapid arrival of nearly 3,000 injured individuals at hospitals within a short timeframe.

To address this crisis, WHO has been working to establish efficient referral systems among hospitals and has supplied essential medical resources. The organization has also provided mental health support for health workers and families affected by the turmoil.

Dr. Abubakar emphasized that Lebanon’s challenges are compounded by past crises, including the COVID-19 pandemic and the devastating 2020 Beirut port explosion, alongside current financial instability. Many hospitals are now also treating trauma-related cases stemming from border violence.

In southern Lebanon, WHO is ramping up operations, offering primary healthcare and immunization services to those displaced by the ongoing conflict. The representative commended Lebanese health authorities for their coordination efforts, which enabled the transfer of patients across over 100 hospitals amid overwhelming circumstances.

In his closing remarks, Dr. Abubakar urged the global community to increase support for Lebanon, emphasizing the critical need for resources to assist those injured and displaced by the ongoing conflicts. He called for respect for international humanitarian law, highlighting the importance of protecting healthcare workers and facilities during this tumultuous time.