At least twelve medical personnel have been killed in southern Lebanon following an Israeli airstrike, according to the Lebanese Ministry of Health. The report was cited by the French news agency AFP on Saturday.
The fatalities occurred at a health centre in Burj Kalawiya, a town located near the southern border of Lebanon. The victims included doctors, paramedics, and nurses who were attending to patients when the attack struck. Several others sustained serious injuries and have been admitted to local hospitals, where medical teams are working to stabilise their conditions.
Earlier in the week, a separate attack in the town of Sawaneh claimed the lives of two paramedics affiliated with Hezbollah and its allied Amal Movement. These incidents have intensified concerns about the safety of frontline health workers in conflict zones, highlighting the broader humanitarian crisis in southern Lebanon.
Summary of Recent Attacks in Southern Lebanon
| Location | Number of Fatalities | Injured | Target / Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Burj Kalawiya | 12 medical staff | Multiple | Health centre hit by airstrike |
| Sawaneh | 2 paramedics | Unspecified | Linked to Hezbollah and Amal Movement |
The strikes have sparked international concern, with human rights organisations urging restraint and accountability. The Lebanese government has deployed additional security forces to prevent further casualties and maintain stability in the affected regions.
In a related development, US President Donald Trump announced a major military operation targeting Kharg Island, located off the Iranian coast near the Strait of Hormuz. Posting on his social media platform ‘Truth Social,’ Trump described the action as “one of the most powerful airstrikes in the history of the Middle East.” According to Trump, the US Central Command completely destroyed all military targets on the island, which is often referred to as Iran’s “crown jewel” due to its strategic importance.
These twin developments have escalated tensions across the Middle East. Analysts warn that continued conflict in southern Lebanon and strategic locations in Iran could significantly disrupt regional security and humanitarian aid efforts. In particular, the loss of trained medical personnel on the frontlines may have long-lasting effects on health services in conflict-affected areas, worsening the crisis for civilians.
The international community has called for urgent measures to protect non-combatants and frontline workers. Meanwhile, Lebanese authorities continue to assess the damage and coordinate relief efforts, while global powers monitor the situation amid fears of further escalation.
