Children in Lebanon Face Health Crisis Amid Ongoing War, UNICEF Warns

BEIRUT: Lebanese children are facing severe health challenges due to the ongoing war, with threats of waterborne diseases and other dangers looming large, UNICEF announced on Friday. The organization highlighted that the conflict has severely compromised healthcare infrastructure, leaving children particularly vulnerable. According to Kuwait News Agency, the war in Lebanon has resulted in the damage of more than 28 healthcare facilities, impacting over 360,000 individuals. Among these, 15 hospitals and 70 healthcare centers have suffered damage, with six hospitals completely out of service and five others operating only part-time. UNICEF reported that dozens of medical personnel have been killed, further straining the already fragile healthcare system. In a statement, UNICEF Representative in Lebanon, Edouard Beigbeder, underscored the importance of protecting humanitarian workers and essential service providers under international humanitarian law. He stated that "humanitarian workers and essential service providers must be protected as they provide life-saving support to families and children living in precarious conditions." Beigbeder called for the protection of civilian infrastructure, emphasizing the increasing needs of nearly a million people requiring access to health, water, and sanitation services. The organization noted that areas such as Beirut and Mount Lebanon are struggling to meet the growing demand for basic necessities as more displaced families arrive seeking safety and support. Beigbeder warned of the severe risks to children, particularly from waterborne diseases like cholera and diarrhea, which can lead to dehydration and death without proper treatment. UNICEF also reported a rise in diseases such as lice, scabies, and respiratory infections among displaced children in recent weeks. With winter approaching, UNICEF expressed concern over the thousands of displaced individuals who will remain homeless on Lebanon's streets. The organization reiterated its call for all parties involved in the conflict to protect the rights of children, who are innocent victims of the war, as mandated by international humanitarian law. UNICEF concluded by stating that the only way to alleviate the suffering of children in Lebanon is to bring an end to the conflict.