Amnesty International has urged for an investigation into the Israeli military’s attacks on healthcare facilities in Lebanon from 3 to 9 October 2024, which resulted in numerous casualties among medical personnel and damage to facilities. They emphasize the need for accountability and urge the Lebanese government to grant the ICC jurisdiction over these actions. The organization found no evidence justifying these attacks under international law, emphasizing the principles of proportionality and protection for medical staff.
Amnesty International has called for an investigation into the Israeli military’s repeated attacks on healthcare facilities and personnel in Lebanon during the conflict that occurred from 3 to 9 October 2024. These acts, which violate international law, resulted in the deaths of 19 healthcare workers and injured 11 others while damaging ambulances and medical facilities. The organization emphasizes the urgent need for the Lebanese government to provide the International Criminal Court (ICC) jurisdiction to investigate and prosecute these violations.
The attacks on medical facilities and staff have not been justified by the Israeli military, which has failed to provide evidence of military targets at the sites of these strikes. Amnesty International highlights that the bombardment of health services not only breaches international humanitarian law but also jeopardizes civilian lives by undermining an already fragile healthcare system. Erika Guevara Rosas, Senior Director for Research, Policy, Advocacy and Campaigns at Amnesty International, insists that accountability for such actions is essential.
The organization documented four specific Israeli strikes during their investigation, all without verifiable evidence of military use. Even in situations where hospitals may be considered as employed for military ends, international law mandates a warning prior to attacks. This stipulation is crucial to allow for the safe evacuation of patients and staff. According to Rosas, the principle of proportionality must always be maintained during conflicts.
Amnesty International’s investigation included interviews with medical workers and witnesses, as well as site visits and verification of imagery related to the attacks. The organization is awaiting a response from the Israeli military concerning its findings communicated on 11 November 2024. Under international humanitarian law, medical personnel and facilities must be preserved from attacks under all circumstances.
Following a ceasefire announced in late November 2024, healthcare professionals continue to face challenges in providing care, grappling with damaged facilities and the loss of colleagues. Rosas emphasized that investigations are necessary to ensure accountability for perpetrators and reparation for victims of these attacks. The call for Lebanon to adhere to the Rome Statute of the ICC is critical for addressing these crimes systematically.
While the Lebanese healthcare sector struggles under multiple crises, including economic issues and pandemic recovery, the Israeli military has drawn attention to allegations against Hezbollah regarding the misuse of ambulances for combat purposes. Nevertheless, Amnesty’s investigations found no substantiated evidence supporting these claims at the time of the analyzed attacks. Consistent breaches of ceasefire agreements further contribute to an unstable situation in the region.
Continuing their efforts, Amnesty International has reported on various unlawful strikes that have resulted in numerous civilian casualties and have urged thorough investigations into these incidents. Overall, the complex interplay of violence by both the Israeli military and Hezbollah during this conflict has raised significant humanitarian concerns that require immediate attention and accountability.
In conclusion, the Israeli military’s attacks on healthcare facilities during the 2024 conflict in Lebanon are characterized as serious violations of international humanitarian law. Amnesty International has urged for an investigation by the International Criminal Court into these actions and has raised concern over the safety and protection of medical personnel in conflict areas. The calls for accountability and justice for victims reflect a broader need to address war crimes and humanitarian crises in the region.
Original Source: www.amnesty.org
