The "World Health Organization" stated in a statement that it has delivered vital medical supplies to Lebanon to help it prepare for any potential health crises. Two shipments from the organization's logistics center in Dubai arrived in Beirut today, containing sufficient quantities of medicines, surgical supplies, and injury treatment materials to meet the needs of between 800 to 1,000 injured individuals. The Lebanese Ministry of Health is working to identify the referral hospitals that will receive these critical supplies.
The organization noted that "the health system in Lebanon is paralyzed due to the economic crisis, the explosion at the Port of Beirut in August 2020, and the Syrian refugee crisis, which has added further burden." It also highlighted the severe shortage of specialized doctors, health workers, medications, and medical equipment exacerbating the situation.
The statement continued: "Since the escalation of violence between Israel and the occupied Palestinian territories last Saturday, reports have also emerged of clashes along the border between Israel and southern Lebanon, resulting in civilian injuries. If the severity of these clashes escalates, more civilians will be at risk and will urgently need medical care to save their lives."
The organization is working with the Ministry of Public Health and health partners in Lebanon to enhance the health system's preparedness to handle any potential increase in casualties resulting from the rising violence. Additionally, the organization is supporting the Ministry of Public Health in activating its Public Health Emergency Operations Center to improve coordination of emergency response efforts at both the central and subnational levels. While prioritizing the treatment of injuries, there will be significant attention to ensuring the uninterrupted provision of essential healthcare services and the delivery of mental health and psychosocial support services.
Furthermore, it stated: "In the Gaza Strip, the continuation of violence has resulted in thousands of dead and injured, causing unprecedented damage to the healthcare system."
The statement concluded: "The World Health Organization reiterates its call for the protection of civilians, healthcare workers, and health infrastructure, and for an end to hostilities and violence."
