Lebanon's health care system is bracing for the potential of a wider conflict with Israel, as tensions have escalated following recent strikes between Israel's military and Hezbollah. The country's caretaker government is making preparations despite facing challenges such as a depleted budget, a divided parliament, and the absence of a president.
The health minister highlighted the adjustments made by the Lebanese health system to cope with multiple crises, including keeping critical supplies stocked for up to four months. The hope is that these emergency preparations will not be needed, and that a broader conflict can be avoided.
In Gaza, the health system has been severely impacted, with concerns about hospitals being targeted in a potential conflict. Recent Israeli strikes in southern Lebanon have resulted in casualties among paramedics and health care workers.
Lebanon's health sector, once renowned in the region, has been struggling due to a series of crises since 2019, including the Beirut Port explosion, the COVID-19 pandemic, and economic challenges. The system has shown resilience in the past, such as during the port blast when it managed an influx of casualties.
However, the country's health care system is under immense strain, with hospitals facing shortages of medicine and struggling to maintain operations. International aid has been dwindling, and the government relies on humanitarian organizations for support.
While the health ministry recently received emergency medical aid from the World Health Organization, challenges remain in securing essential resources like fuel for electricity and ambulances. The situation is further complicated by the presence of almost 800,000 Syrian refugees in Lebanon, with limited health care resources available to them.
The health minister emphasized the need for increased support from the international community to address these pressing issues and ensure that all individuals in Lebanon, including refugees, receive the necessary care.
