Breaking: Israeli Airstrikes Kill Hospital Director and 5 Paramedics in Lebanon

An Israeli airstrike in northeastern Lebanon killed Dr. Ali Allam, the director of a university hospital, along with six others at his home, according to state media. The attack struck Dr. Allam’s residence near Dar Al-Amal Hospital, the largest medical facility in Baalbek-Hermel province, which has played a critical role in providing healthcare during Israel’s ongoing airstrike campaign. The Health Ministry reported that the airstrike was carried out without warning.

The ministry mourned his death, calling it a significant loss, and provincial governor Bachir Khodr expressed his grief on social media, praising Dr. Allam as one of Baalbek’s finest citizens.

On the same day, Israeli airstrikes in southern Lebanon killed five paramedics working with Hezbollah’s medical unit. The Health Ministry condemned this as a “war crime,” noting that Hezbollah, aside from its military role, runs vital social services, including health clinics and schools.

A recent report from the World Health Organization highlighted the alarming frequency of attacks on healthcare in Lebanon since October 7, 2023. The WHO stated that nearly half of these attacks have resulted in fatalities, a percentage higher than in any active conflict worldwide.

From October 7, 2023, to November 18, 2024, 226 healthcare workers and patients were killed, with 199 more injured. The Health Ministry reported that since the conflict escalated in late September, 3,645 people have been killed, including 692 women and 231 children, and 15,356 others have been wounded.