Emergency Workers in Lebanon Face Deadly Attacks Amid Ongoing Conflict
Amid escalating tensions and violence in Lebanon, Lebanese Civil Defense workers in the village of Derdghaiya faced challenges in accessing ambulances for rescue missions due to resource scarcity caused by recent Israeli military bombardments. Volunteers, like Bachir Nakhal, stepped in to fundraise for a new ambulance after the village was targeted in an airstrike, leading to the death of five first responders.
These attacks on emergency personnel, including the targeting of health care facilities, have raised concerns of potential war crimes as highlighted by the United Nations. Despite the risks faced by Civil Defense workers, the sense of duty and commitment to serving their people remains strong.
“The assassinations are a scene, and the show that they want us to watch is their impunity, the level of destruction they’re raining down on us.”
Despite claims by the Israeli military that their operations target Hezbollah, reports indicate a broader impact on civilian infrastructure and essential services, leading to further civilian casualties and disruptions to critical care. However, volunteers like Nakhal remain steadfast in their commitment to support their communities, emphasizing the importance of maintaining emergency services in the face of adversity.
Update: October 14, 5:52 p.m. ET
This story has been updated to include a statement received after publication from the Israeli military.