The World Health Organization in the Eastern Mediterranean reported that Regional Director Ahmed Al-Mandhari concluded his visit to Beirut amid escalating hostilities on the Lebanese border. He met with the Prime Minister, the Minister of Health, UN partners, and organization staff to "enhance the health system's preparedness to face any escalation that might occur in the conflict." Over the past few weeks, hostilities have crossed the border into southern Lebanon, resulting in 42 deaths, 193 injuries, and the internal displacement of 29,000 people since the conflict began.
Al-Mandhari stated, "The extension of hostilities to southern Lebanon is a cause for concern because it exposes more civilians to the risk of death or injury and may threaten the health security of the entire region. Ultimately, we call for a ceasefire in Gaza to prevent further loss and suffering. As part of regional preparedness efforts, we are working to ensure that the health system in Lebanon is ready to handle mass casualties and provide health services to the displaced without compromising existing health services for those living in the area."
The statement noted that "the health system in Lebanon faces challenges due to the ongoing economic crisis and the impact of the Beirut explosion in August 2020, and it is under pressure from the increasing burden of Syrian refugee needs. The severe shortage of specialized doctors, healthcare workers, medicines, medical equipment, and other health supplies has further exacerbated the complex challenges facing the health system and the health of the population. Alongside the support provided by the organization and health partners, the Ministry of Public Health has raised the preparedness level of the health system to support the treatment of mass casualty incidents and provide emergency healthcare services to those affected by any escalation that may occur in the conflict.
The organization has supported the establishment and activation of a Public Health Emergency Operations Center at the Ministry of Public Health to coordinate and support all health preparedness and response activities."
During his visit, Al-Mandhari, accompanied by Richard Brennan, Director of the Regional Emergency Program, met with Prime Minister Najib Mikati and Acting Minister of Public Health Firas Abiad. Mikati thanked the organization for its continued support in meeting health needs in Lebanon during the multiple crises the country has faced in recent years, and for the swift support provided to address any deterioration that might occur in health emergencies at the border. After Abiad expressed his appreciation for the cooperation between the organization and the Ministry of Public Health, he emphasized the importance of emergency preparedness and response, stating: "The organization's support for strengthening health systems during emergencies is extremely important."
