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The Lebanese Ministry of Health announced today, Tuesday, that 10 people were killed in two Zionist raids in Beirut.
The Public Health Emergency Operations Center of the Lebanese Ministry of Public Health stated in a statement, “Following a Zionist raid that targeted a residential building in the Al-Nuwairi neighborhood – Beirut, near the Khatam Al-Anbiya complex, and caused its complete destruction, the specialized search and rescue teams of the General Directorate of Civil Defense worked to implement… Comprehensive field surveys in search of all missing persons.
He added, “As a result of the operations carried out, members of the Civil Defense were able to rescue 11 wounded people, recover 7 bodies, and transfer the bodies of two martyrs to Al-Zahraa Hospital, while other parties transported the rest of the bodies to area hospitals.”
He continued, “The Zionist enemy launched another raid on the Barbour area in Beirut, which led, according to an updated toll, to the death of three people and they were removed from the place, where the identity of the owners will be determined by conducting DNA tests, in addition to the wounding of ten people.”
Interview with Dr. Laila Hariri, Conflict and Public Health Expert
Editor: Welcome, Dr. Hariri. Thank you for joining us today to discuss the recent tragic events in Beirut following the Israeli air raids. The Lebanese Ministry of Health reported 10 fatalities and numerous injuries. Can you provide insight into the current public health implications of such conflicts?
Dr. Hariri: Thank you for having me. The recent events in Beirut highlight the grave consequences that armed conflicts have on public health. When air raids occur, like the ones in the Al-Nuwairi neighborhood, they not only cause immediate casualties but also lead to long-term health crises. The stress and trauma inflicted on the population can precipitate mental health issues, while the destruction of medical infrastructure hampers continual care for the injured.
Editor: You mentioned medical infrastructure. How does this level of destruction impact the overall health system in a conflict zone like Lebanon?
Dr. Hariri: The destruction of residential buildings often signals collateral damage to nearby health facilities. In Beirut, for example, if hospitals are overrun with injured persons, they will struggle to maintain their operations. This can lead to increased morbidity from untreated conditions, both related to the raids and other health issues. Predictably, emergency response teams face tremendous pressure to search, rescue, and treat the wounded, which can stretch limited resources extremely thin.
Editor: The reports noted that search and rescue efforts by the General Directorate of Civil Defense managed to find survivors. What are the best practices for search and rescue teams in such urgent situations?
Dr. Hariri: In urgent situations like these, rapid and coordinated search and rescue operations are crucial. Teams should prioritize areas based on likelihood of survivors, utilize advanced technology like drones for overhead surveys, and collaborate closely with local hospitals to manage the inflow of casualties effectively. Constant communication with the affected community is also vital, as it aids in gathering intelligence that can direct rescue efforts.
Editor: Given the recurring nature of such violence, what practical advice can you provide to readers for staying safe during such conflicts?
Dr. Hariri: Firstly, staying informed through reliable news sources is essential. Residents should develop a family emergency plan that includes evacuation routes and communication strategies. It’s also vital to have basic emergency supplies on hand, including first-aid kits and non-perishable food. Lastly, psychological preparedness—understanding the possible impact of such traumatic events on mental health—is equally important.
Editor: With regards to long-term implications, what can be done to address the ongoing public health issues caused by such raids?
Dr. Hariri: Long-term recovery will require both immediate humanitarian assistance and a commitment to rebuilding health infrastructure. International aid organizations must step in to support local health services, provide medical supplies, and aid mental health initiatives. It’s imperative that we invest in resilience-building measures within these communities to better prepare for future conflicts.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Hariri, for sharing your insights with us today. Your expertise helps shed light on the crucial public health issues stemming from conflict in Lebanon.
Dr. Hariri: Thank you for having me. It’s important for us to raise awareness about these issues so that communities affected by conflict receive the care and support they deserve.