Three paramedics killed in successive Israeli strikes in Lebanon, officials say
Three Paramedics Killed in Israeli Strikes on Lebanon, Officials Report
At least three paramedics were killed in a series of Israeli attacks targeting southern Lebanon on Wednesday, according to Lebanese officials. The incidents occurred in rapid succession, with one paramedic found dead and another reported missing after the first strike. Subsequent strikes injured multiple medics, including three from the Risala Scout Association and Nabatieh Ambulance Service.
Teams Targeted Amid Ongoing Conflict
A team from the Islamic Health Association was struck while aiding survivors near the Mayfadoun site in Nabatieh, a region frequently hit by Israeli military operations. The second team from the same group, responding to the area, also faced an attack that left three paramedics wounded. The attacks mark a pattern of targeting emergency services, with officials suggesting deliberate efforts to harm healthcare workers.
“Paramedics have become direct targets, pursued relentlessly in a blatant violation that confirms a total disregard for all norms and principles established by international humanitarian law,” stated Lebanon’s health ministry in a recent report.
Fadel Serhan, a 43-year-old paramedic associated with the Risala Scout Association, was among the casualties. His team had been active outside Nabih Berri Hospital, having lost their base in Mayfadoun to an Israeli air strike early in the conflict. Serhan, known for his dedication, had volunteered in previous wars, demonstrating unwavering commitment to aid.
Humanitarian Impact and Legal Concerns
Lebanon’s health ministry reported over 2,100 deaths and 7,000 injuries since the war began on 2 March. Of these, 91 healthcare professionals were killed, and 208 others injured, with more than 120 Israeli attacks on medical facilities documented. The ministry condemned the strikes as a “flagrant crime,” highlighting the risk to civilians and medics alike.
Kristine Beckerle, a representative from Amnesty International, noted that international humanitarian law protects civilians, including healthcare workers, regardless of their affiliations. She described the attacks as a serious breach of these principles, potentially qualifying as a war crime.
Meanwhile, Israeli authorities claim Hezbollah has killed two civilians in Israel and 13 soldiers in Lebanon during the same period. The accusations of Hezbollah using ambulances for military purposes remain unproven, with Lebanon’s health minister disputing the allegations.
Additional reporting by Neha Sharma and Angie Mrad
