Lebanon Protests Israeli Occupation’s Attacks Targeting Health Sector, Facilities.

Beirut: Lebanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Emigrants has formally submitted a protest letter to the UN Security Council, condemning the Israeli occupation's obvious violation by targeting the health sector in Lebanon. The complaint included the violent attacks by the Israeli occupation forces on hospitals and healthcare centers since October 8, 2023, until October 24, 2024, said the ministry in a release. According to Kuwait News Agency, the number of attacks on the health sector have reached up to 281 attacks, resulting in the deaths of 163 people working in hospitals and relief sectors, with hundreds more injured. The effects of the Israeli aggression on the health sector have been described as "catastrophic" in the targeted areas, leading to the displacement of a large number of medical professionals and a severe shortage of medical supplies and equipment. This has caused a deterioration in the quality of healthcare provided to patients, mothers, and newborns. The Lebanese Ministry has called for the international community to strengthen its support for the health sector and provide more urgent assistance to protect the health infrastructure. The release noted that Security Council Member states have called for condemning the Israeli occupation, holding it accountable, and taking "effective steps" to prevent its attacks on the health and emergency sector. These actions are viewed as war crimes, given that international humanitarian law clearly stipulates the necessity of protecting health and relief institutions and their workers during wars and armed conflicts. Since September 23, Lebanon has been witnessing intense airstrikes by the Israeli occupation across various regions, resulting in significant casualties, widespread damage, and the displacement of hundreds of thousands.