– We are deeply concerned about the increase in attacks against health workers and health institutions in Lebanon. The number is really quite shocking, says WHO spokesperson Margaret Harris at a press conference in Geneva on Friday.
She says that they have so far been able to verify 55 attacks, but that the real number is probably much higher. The attacks have left at least 102 dead and 83 injured, says Harris, who follows WHO guidelines not to state who is behind the attacks.
– All in all, we have verified 55 attacks, but the Ministry of Health reports that it is a much higher number as many workers are killed and injured while they are off, and this is significant as the healthcare system is already overburdened, she says.
She also points out that Lebanon’s health workers are already overworked and that many have been displaced.
– We emphasize time and time again that the healthcare system is not a goal, health workers are not a goal, she emphasizes.
– The hospitals are overwhelmed by the wounded, and the burden on the health system is enormous, according to Harris.
After Israel stepped up its attacks against Lebanon on 23 September, at least 1,829 Lebanese have been killed, according to an AFP tally based on figures from Lebanon’s Ministry of Health.
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**Interview with Margaret Harris, WHO Spokesperson**
**Interviewer:** Margaret, thank you for joining us today. The recent reports of attacks on health workers and institutions in Lebanon are deeply concerning. Can you elaborate on the scale of these attacks and their impact on the healthcare system?
**Margaret Harris:** Thank you for having me. Yes, we are indeed alarmed by the increase in attacks. To date, we have verified 55 attacks, but we suspect the actual number is significantly higher. Sadly, these incidents have resulted in at least 102 deaths and 83 injuries among health workers. It is critical to remember that many are attacked when they are off duty, which complicates the situation further.
**Interviewer:** That’s a staggering number. How are these attacks affecting the overall healthcare system in Lebanon?
**Margaret Harris:** The impact is profound. Hospitals are overwhelmed with casualties, and the burden on the healthcare system is enormous. Our healthcare workers are not only overworked but many have also been displaced. We continuously emphasize that healthcare facilities and personnel should never be targets.
**Interviewer:** Given this dire situation, what do you think needs to happen to better protect health workers and ensure continued care for patients in Lebanon?
**Margaret Harris:** There must be immediate international awareness and action to protect health care facilities and providers. Respect for humanitarian laws is crucial, as is the need for sustainable support for the health system in Lebanon.
**Interviewer:** Absolutely. This situation raises so many ethical questions. Given the geopolitical context, how do you believe this affects the global perception of healthcare resilience in conflict zones? Should global communities intervene more decisively?
**Margaret Harris:** That’s an essential question. The ongoing violence against health workers should compel the global community to reflect on their responsibilities. Are we doing enough to safeguard those who are there to help the injured? This situation certainly opens the door for a broader discussion about how health services can survive and thrive amidst conflict. I encourage readers to consider their perspectives on this issue: Is the global response adequate, or does it necessitate a more proactive approach?
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Margaret, for your insights and for shedding light on this critical issue. We appreciate your time and commitment to improving global health standards amidst such challenges.
