BEIRUT: A strike attributed to Israeli forces near the Rafik Hariri University Hospital in Beirut’s Jnah neighborhood has resulted in at least 18 fatalities, including four children, and injured 60 others. The attack, which occurred late Monday, also reportedly caused damage to the hospital, a critical healthcare facility in the region. The assault has drawn severe criticism from international human rights officials.
According to National News Agency – Lebanon, UN Human Rights Chief Volker Trk expressed deep concern over the incident, emphasizing the need for adherence to international humanitarian law, particularly regarding civilian protection. The hospital, which has been a vital resource throughout the ongoing conflict, appears to have sustained damage, further straining healthcare services in the area. Trk highlighted the obligation of all military operations to take necessary precautions to avoid civilian casualties and damage to civilian infrastructure.
Trk reiterated the specific protections afforde
d to hospitals, ambulances, and medical personnel under international humanitarian law due to their critical role in saving lives. He called for thorough investigations into incidents impacting medical facilities and urged all parties involved to prioritize civilian safety. The UN continues to advocate for an immediate cessation of hostilities, stressing the imperative of safeguarding civilian lives in conflict zones.