The escalating conflict between Israel and Hezbollah has taken a deadly toll on Lebanon’s emergency workers. Israeli airstrikes have targeted hospitals, medical centers, and rescue teams across southern Lebanon, killing and injuring dozens of first responders. Among the hardest hit is the Islamic Health Society (IHS), which has lost over 85 staff members and seen more than 150 injured.
A tragic strike on October 7 destroyed the Baraachit Emergency Centre, killing 10 firefighters who were part of IHS’s Civil Defence unit. As Israel intensifies its military campaign, emergency services are struggling to reach affected areas, leaving swathes of southern Lebanon without vital medical aid. The IHS and other humanitarian organizations continue to serve the displaced despite ongoing attacks and growing risks.
The Lebanese health ministry has denounced these strikes as war crimes, calling for international intervention to stop the targeting of rescue workers and civilians. Amid the devastation, IHS staf