Amnesty International has urged investigations into Israeli military attacks on healthcare services during the recent Lebanon-Hezbollah war, classifying them as potential war crimes. Following a November truce, the organization advocates for the Lebanese government’s cooperation with the International Criminal Court. Reports indicate extensive damage to healthcare infrastructure and a high casualty rate during the conflict, necessitating accountability for these actions.
Amnesty International has called for an investigation into Israeli military attacks on ambulances, health personnel, and medical facilities during the recent conflict with Hezbollah, deeming these actions potential war crimes. Following a truce on November 27 that ended over a year of conflict, Amnesty emphasized the need for accountability regarding these assaults that violate international law.
The Israeli military accused Hezbollah of misusing its ambulances for military purposes, a claim the group has denied. Amnesty reported that the Israeli military’s persistent unlawful attacks on health services must be scrutinized, calling for the Lebanese government to grant the International Criminal Court authority to probe these allegations.
During the conflict, Lebanon’s former health minister stated that there were 67 recorded attacks on hospitals, with 40 specifically targeted, resulting in 16 fatalities. Additionally, 238 attacks occurred against emergency responders, causing 206 deaths and damaging numerous emergency vehicles.
Amnesty detailed investigations of four notable Israeli strikes against health facilities in Beirut and south Lebanon, which resulted in the deaths of 19 healthcare workers and injuries to 11 others. The organization found no evidence that these targets were used for military operations at the time of the assaults.
Despite reaching out to the Israeli military regarding its findings, Amnesty reported a lack of response. The organization highlighted the absence of adequate justification from the military for these attacks that severely compromised an already fragile healthcare system. According to Lebanese officials, the conflict resulted in over 4,000 deaths and significant infrastructural damage, with reconstruction costs projected to exceed $10 billion.
In summary, Amnesty International has called for an investigation into Israel’s actions during the recent conflict with Hezbollah, focusing on attacks against medical facilities and personnel. The organization emphasizes the importance of holding accountable those responsible for violations of international law, as the hostilities have resulted in significant loss of life and damage to Lebanon’s healthcare infrastructure.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
