An “urgent” appeal from the World Health Organization regarding Lebanon!

The World Health Organization announced in a statement that, “In response to the increase in hostilities on the border, it has issued an urgent appeal for preparedness and response in Lebanon.”

He added, “Funding to increase the ability to manage mass casualties and emergency care, ensure the continuation of basic health services provided to vulnerable and affected population groups, enhance disease surveillance and control, and other measures.”

The statement continued, “This appeal takes into account two possible scenarios: If hostilities are limited to southern Lebanon, the organization estimates that it will need $6.7 million to prepare and respond, and if hostilities extend to the entire country, it will need $11.1 million.”

He pointed out, “This appeal is part of a renewed appeal from the organization for multi-country financing for the occupied Palestinian territory and neighboring countries, with total financing requirements estimated at approximately 140 million US dollars.”

He stated, “Lebanon is witnessing a protracted economic crisis that has reduced people’s income and limited their access to health care. Medicine shortages are common in the country and citizens incur exorbitant health costs that they pay out of their own pockets. Estimates indicate that more than 40% of the health workforce has lost their lives. I left the country, and that 2 out of every 3 people in Lebanon need humanitarian aid, including health aid.”

The statement noted, “The ongoing hostilities in southern Lebanon and on the border with Israel, and the state of uncertainty about the future, place additional burdens on the health system. So far, 77 people have been killed, 331 others have been injured, and more than 26,000 people have been displaced inside Lebanon.” Three attacks on healthcare facilities were also reported.

He stressed, “The organization began, together with the Ministry of Public Health and other partners, to prepare for the possible expansion of the conflict. A public health emergency operations center was activated, led by the Ministry and with the support of the organization, to coordinate the national response.”