Intensification of attacks
In recent days, several Israeli strikes in Beirut and southern Lebanon have killed 569 people, including 94 women and 50 children, and injured 1,835. This situation worsens the humanitarian challenges Lebanon is already facing, particularly in terms of health, access to water, food security, and shelter.
Médecins du Monde teams are observing significant population displacements as people flee bombings in the south of the country. This poses a major risk to the health of those forced to interrupt their care pathways. Furthermore, these displacements also weaken the health system, as emergency facilities are overwhelmed.
“We are seeing the same modus operandi as in Gaza: international humanitarian law is not being respected.” Jean-François Corty, President of Médecins du Monde France.
“We are deeply concerned about the ongoing escalation in the region. We are seeing the same modus operandi as in Gaza: international humanitarian law is not being respected. Strikes are preceded by messages on social media, often vague and with too little time to allow populations to take shelter. This situation is unacceptable and endangers thousands of civilian lives.”
Jean-François Corty, President of Médecins du Monde
International humanitarian law must be respected
We recall that international humanitarian law protects civilian populations in conflicts and must be respected. The distinction between civilians and combatants is paramount, and all precautions must be taken to ensure the safety of the former. We call on all parties to protect civilian populations and healthcare facilities, as well as medical and humanitarian personnel, who are essential to responding to the health needs of the injured and displaced.
Médecins du Monde launches an emergency response
In this crisis context, Médecins du Monde is mobilizing its resources to respond to urgent needs. Our teams are ready to provide medical care through mobile teams, moving into the hardest-hit areas and to displaced populations to facilitate access to care for those affected.
At the same time, Médecins du Monde is supporting the Lebanese health system. We are working closely with the Ministry of Health to assess needs and provide medical supplies and necessary medications to respond to the influx of patients. We are also strengthening our partnerships to ensure the continuity of essential health care.
“This situation is unacceptable and endangers thousands of civilian lives.” Jean-François Corty, President of Médecins du Monde France.
The escalation of violence in Lebanon is directly linked to the ongoing conflict in Gaza, and we reiterate that an immediate and lasting ceasefire is a vital necessity for Palestinians in Gaza as well as for the Lebanese today.
Photo: AP Photo/Omar Sanadik