Explosions in Lebanon Leave Devastation and Chaos
On Wednesday evening, Lebanon faced a catastrophic wave of explosions targeting communication devices, resulting in a tragic death toll of at least 9 individuals and over 300 injuries. This incident follows a previous explosion that claimed the lives of 13 people, including children, and left nearly 2,750 wounded across the country. The Public Health Emergency Operations Center of the Lebanese Ministry of Public Health reported that hospitals are overwhelmed, with many patients requiring intensive care due to severe injuries.
The explosions, which occurred in various regions, particularly affected the South and Beirut, where hospitals are struggling to manage the influx of patients. Approximately 1,800 individuals required hospitalization, with around 460 needing surgical intervention for critical injuries. Medical facilities are on high alert, and the situation is described as unprecedented, mirroring the chaos of the Beirut port explosion in 2020.
In response to the crisis, Lebanon has received international aid, including a shipment of medical supplies from Iraq, along with support from Iran and Jordan. The Lebanese health sector has been mobilized to handle the emergency, with hospitals coordinating to treat the injured effectively.
Legal Implications and International Response
Legal experts are condemning the targeting of communication means as a violation of international humanitarian law, highlighting the risks posed to civilians. Paul Marcos, a lawyer and dean at the International Business University, emphasizes that these actions constitute war crimes and call for accountability under international law. He urges the Lebanese judiciary to take swift action in response to these violations.
Meanwhile, the Taiwanese company Gold Apollo has denied allegations that it manufactured the pagers used in the explosions. The company’s director stated that the devices in question are not their products, despite reports suggesting otherwise. The explosions have intensified tensions in the region, particularly as Israel expands its military objectives amid ongoing conflicts with Hezbollah.
Health System Under Siege
The Lebanese health system is currently in a state of panic as hospitals report chaotic conditions due to the overwhelming number of casualties. Tents have been set up for blood donations, and medical facilities are in urgent need of equipment and supplies. The Minister of Health has declared a maximum alert status, as ambulances continue to arrive with injured individuals.
In light of the crisis, educational institutions across Lebanon have been ordered to close temporarily to prioritize medical efforts. The situation remains critical, with health officials working tirelessly to manage the disaster's aftermath.
