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Lebanon Rejects Israeli Claims of Ambulance Militarization as Attacks Kill Medics

Lebanon's Ministry of Public Health has formally rejected Israeli military accusations that ambulances are being used for military purposes by Hezbollah. The ministry stated that Israeli forces have repeatedly targeted ambulance teams, citing a recent strike on a primary healthcare center that killed 12 medical workers. It reports that since March 2, Israeli attacks have killed 26 paramedics and wounded 51 others, including targeting the Lebanese Red Cross. Lebanon calls the Israeli claims an attempt to justify violations of international humanitarian law.

Key Points: Lebanon Rejects Israeli Ambulance Claims, Reports Medic Casualties

  • Lebanon rejects Israeli ambulance claims
  • 12 medical workers killed in Saturday strike
  • 26 paramedics killed since March 2
  • Israel accuses Hezbollah of militarizing ambulances
  • Attacks extend to Lebanese Red Cross
2 min read

Lebanon rejects Israeli claims on ambulances used for military purposes

Lebanon's health ministry denies Israeli claims ambulances are used militarily, reporting 26 paramedics killed and 51 wounded in recent attacks.

"Israel's claims that ambulances are used for military purposes aim to justify violations of international humanitarian law - Lebanese Ministry of Public Health"

Beirut, March 15

Lebanon's Ministry of Public Health rejected the Israeli army's claims that ambulances were used for military purposes, calling the accusations an attempt to justify "crimes against humanity."

In a statement, the ministry said Israeli forces have repeatedly targeted ambulance teams during rescue missions since the start of the offensive on Lebanon, including a strike on a primary healthcare center in the southern village of Burj Qalaouiyeh early Saturday, which it described as a civilian medical facility operating under the ministry's supervision, Xinhua news agency reported.

The attack killed 12 medical workers, including doctors, nurses and rescuers, seriously wounded one health worker, and left four others missing, according to the statement.

The ministry added that since March 2, Israeli attacks have killed 26 paramedics and wounded 51 others, describing the toll as evidence of continued attacks on medical teams, which have also extended to the Lebanese Red Cross for the first time since October 2023.

It said Israel's claims that ambulances are used for military purposes aim to justify violations of international humanitarian law and the Geneva Conventions protecting medical personnel and facilities.

Earlier on Saturday, an Israeli military spokesperson said in a post on social media platform X that Hezbollah is extensively using ambulances for "military purposes," warning that the military use of medical facilities and ambulances must cease immediately.

Hezbollah announced the launch of rockets from Lebanon toward Israel on March 2 for the first time since a ceasefire took effect on November 27, 2024. Israel subsequently launched an offensive military campaign against the group, carrying out intensive airstrikes on multiple areas in southern and eastern Lebanon, as well as Beirut's southern suburbs.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
While the loss of any civilian life is tragic, we must also be realistic. Hezbollah has a known history of using civilian infrastructure as shields. Israel has a right to defend itself from rocket attacks. The situation is complex and both sides need to show restraint.
A
Aman W
As an Indian, seeing conflicts like this makes me grateful for our relative peace. We know the cost of war on our borders. International bodies need to step in and verify these claims independently. Blindly believing accusations from either side helps no one.
S
Sarah B
The numbers are staggering - 26 paramedics killed? This isn't collateral damage; it's a pattern. If ambulances are being misused, provide the evidence to the UN, don't just post on X. The lack of accountability in this conflict is terrifying.
V
Vikram M
This hits close to home. We have brave medical workers on our borders too. Attacking them is an attack on humanity itself. India should use its diplomatic voice to call for the protection of medical personnel everywhere. #HumanityFirst
K
Karthik V
Respectfully, the article only quotes the Lebanese ministry and Xinhua. A more balanced report would include a detailed Israeli response or evidence. We're only getting one side of the story here. Journalism should strive for objectivity, especially on such sensitive topics.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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