Lebanon Denies Israeli Allegations of Ambulances Used for Military Actions
Synopsis
In a strong rebuttal, Lebanon's Ministry of Public Health has condemned Israeli claims regarding the military use of ambulances, calling these accusations a tactic to excuse severe violations of humanitarian law. The statement follows a tragic attack that resulted in the deaths of medical professionals during ongoing hostilities.
Key Takeaways
Lebanon's Ministry of Public Health dismisses Israeli claims regarding military use of ambulances.
Recent Israeli attacks have resulted in significant casualties among medical personnel.
International humanitarian law violations are a central concern in this conflict.
Hezbollah's recent actions have escalated tensions with Israel.
The ongoing conflict raises serious questions about the safety of civilian and medical facilities.
Beirut, March 15 (NationPress) The Ministry of Public Health in Lebanon has firmly dismissed the Israeli army's allegations that ambulances have been repurposed for military uses, labeling these claims as a misguided effort to rationalize "crimes against humanity."
In an official statement, the ministry highlighted that since the onset of the offensive against Lebanon, Israeli forces have consistently targeted ambulance teams engaged in rescue operations. This includes a recent attack on a primary healthcare facility in the southern village of Burj Qalaouiyeh early Saturday, which the ministry confirmed was a civilian medical establishment operating under its oversight, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
This assault resulted in the deaths of 12 medical professionals, comprising doctors, nurses, and rescue workers. One health worker sustained serious injuries, while four others remain unaccounted for, according to the ministry's statement.
Moreover, since March 2, Israeli actions have resulted in the deaths of 26 paramedics and injuries to 51 others, underscoring a sustained assault on medical personnel, which has now extended to the Lebanese Red Cross for the first time since October 2023.
The ministry emphasized that Israel's assertions about the military use of ambulances are attempts to legitimize violations of international humanitarian law and the Geneva Conventions, which are designed to safeguard medical personnel and facilities.
Earlier on Saturday, an Israeli military spokesperson claimed via a post on the social media platform X that Hezbollah is deploying ambulances for "military purposes," urging an immediate cessation of the military utilization of medical facilities and ambulances.
Hezbollah had announced on March 2 the firing of rockets from Lebanon into Israel, marking the first such action since a ceasefire was established on November 27, 2024. In retaliation, Israel commenced a military offensive against the group, executing extensive airstrikes across various regions in southern and eastern Lebanon, including the southern suburbs of Beirut.
Point of View
The events surrounding the Israeli-Lebanese conflict continue to escalate with serious implications for civilian safety and humanitarian efforts. The Lebanese government's rejection of Israeli claims reflects a broader concern over the protection of medical personnel and facilities amidst warfare. This situation warrants close scrutiny as it unfolds, especially regarding adherence to international humanitarian standards.
NationPress
11 Aug 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the recent allegations made by the Israeli army?
The Israeli army claims that ambulances in Lebanon are being used for military purposes, which Lebanon's Ministry of Public Health has denied.
How has Lebanon responded to these allegations?
Lebanon's Ministry of Public Health has rejected the claims, stating they are an attempt to justify attacks on medical personnel and facilities.
What impact have the Israeli attacks had on medical personnel?
Since the escalation began, 26 paramedics have been killed and 51 injured, highlighting the dangers faced by medical teams in the region.
What specific incidents have occurred recently?
A recent attack on a healthcare center in Burj Qalaouiyeh resulted in the deaths of 12 medical workers and injuries to several others.
What is Hezbollah's involvement in this situation?
Hezbollah has been accused of launching rockets into Israel, prompting an Israeli military response that has included airstrikes on various Lebanese locations.
