Lebanese Civil Defense Faces Challenges Amid Ongoing Conflict
In the midst of escalating violence in Lebanon, civil defense personnel are bravely confronting the dual threats of fire and destruction. Operating primarily in the southern suburbs of Beirut, these dedicated individuals are committed to saving lives and protecting property despite facing significant risks. Ghassan Zuhaim, head of operations for the civil defense, emphasized their unwavering commitment, stating, “We sacrifice without hesitation, because protecting our people and preserving their property is our duty.”
Since the onset of hostilities, civil defense centers in high-risk areas have been evacuated due to direct threats from Israeli forces. Zuhaim revealed that a strategic plan was developed to ensure rapid response capabilities, utilizing motorcycles to navigate quickly to targeted sites. However, the lack of heavy equipment, such as cranes and bulldozers, poses a significant challenge during rescue operations, particularly in multi-story buildings that have been bombed.
Rising Casualties Among Civil Defense Personnel
The dangers faced by civil defense teams have resulted in tragic losses. Over 20 personnel have been killed since the conflict escalated, with recent airstrikes targeting their centers leading to the deaths of 14 individuals in Baalbek and 5 in Tyre District. These attacks highlight the perilous conditions under which these teams operate, as they become direct targets while attempting to provide essential services to the community.
The ongoing Israeli military actions, which intensified on September 23, have not only endangered the lives of civil defense members but have also severely impacted their operational capabilities. The Lebanese government has responded by calling on the United Nations Security Council to condemn these attacks, citing a total of 27 civil defense personnel killed and 76 injured since the conflict began on October 8, 2023.
International Response and Calls for Accountability
Lebanon's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has taken steps to address these violations by submitting a formal complaint to the UN Security Council. The complaint details the systematic targeting of civil defense personnel and facilities, which disrupts their humanitarian efforts and exacerbates the risks faced by civilians. The Lebanese government asserts that these actions constitute a violation of international humanitarian law and amount to war crimes.
As the conflict continues, the plight of civil defense teams underscores the broader humanitarian crisis in Lebanon, with calls for international support and accountability growing louder. The situation remains dire, with civil defense personnel remaining steadfast in their mission to protect their communities despite the overwhelming challenges they face.
