Lebanon’s health minister, Dr. Firass Abiad, has declared that the country is “already at war” as Israeli airstrikes continue to devastate civilian areas, causing widespread displacement and casualties. In an interview with Sky News, Dr. Abiad shared the dire situation, revealing that nearly half a million people have been displaced due to ongoing Israeli attacks, which have killed over 700 people and injured nearly 5,000, including women, children, and healthcare workers.
Dr. Abiad accused Israel of deliberately creating a “state of panic and terror” in Lebanon to provoke mass evacuations, with around 50,000 people currently seeking refuge in shelters. However, the majority of displaced residents have fled to private homes, making the actual number of displaced individuals even higher. He warned that the attacks, which target both civilian and residential areas, could lead to even more catastrophic outcomes if they continue at their current intensity.
The conflict has escalated significantly, with Hezbollah recently launching a missile toward Tel Aviv for the first time. Israeli forces claim their military operations are focused on Hezbollah’s weapons stores and commanders, accusing the group of using Lebanese civilians as human shields.
Dr. Abiad also highlighted the immense strain on Lebanon’s healthcare system, warning that it could soon become overwhelmed if the violence persists. He called for an immediate ceasefire, urging the international community to step up pressure on Israel and halt the attacks. The minister emphasized that a ceasefire should encompass both Lebanon and Gaza, where similar devastation is occurring.
The situation in Lebanon is dire, with airstrikes continuing to rain down, and the need for international intervention grows ever more urgent as displaced families and a battered health system struggle to cope.
Read more at Sky News.
