UN renews call to protect civilians as deadly Israeli attack strikes near vital hospital in Beirut
The strike, which occurred in the densely populated Jnah neighborhood, also injured 60 people and reportedly damaged the Rafik Hariri University Hospital. At least three buildings located about 50 meters (54 yards) from the hospital were said to have been destroyed.
The hospital, one of Beirut’s key medical facilities, has received large numbers of patients throughout the ongoing conflict.
UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk expressed shocked by the attack and emphasized the urgent need to protect civilians.
“The fundamental principles of international humanitarian law regarding the protection of civilians must be respected,” he said.
“In the course of military operations, all practicable precautions must be taken to avoid and in all circumstances minimize incidental loss of life, injury to civilians and harm to civilian objects.”
Hospitals must be protected
Hospitals, ambulances and medical staff are clearly protected under international humanitarian law because of their vital role in saving lives.
Mr. Türk added: “When conducting military operations in the vicinity of hospitals, parties to the conflict must assess the expected impact on health care services in relation to the principles of proportionate and preventive”.
Call for investigation
Mr. Türk called for a quick and thorough investigation into the airstrike and reiterated the United Nations’ call for an immediate ceasefire.
“The protection of civilians must be an absolute top priority,” he stressed.
Health risks escalate
The conflict has devastated key infrastructure, including hospitals and water and sanitation services, raising fears of deadly disease outbreaks, especially in displaced communities. .
Last week, health authorities confirmed the first case of cholera in northern Lebanon, where many people displaced by fighting in the south have sought refuge, according to the United Nations World Health Organization (WHO).
Humanitarian partners also warned of the spread of skin diseases such as scabies and expressed concern for vulnerable groups, including children and the elderly, living in tents and temporary shelters. time when winter approaches.
Humane response
Since fighting escalated in mid-September, the number of displaced people has increased significantly. According to the International Organization for Migration (IOM), the number of displaced people increased from 110,000 to nearly 800,000 as of October 16.
Many families have also sought refuge across borders, especially in Syria and Iraq, countries facing crises.
In response, the United Nations and humanitarian partners launched a $426 million lightning appeal on October 1 to assist one million people over the next three months. As of Tuesday, about $64.4 million has been raised.
