Israeli strikes put southern Lebanon hospital under strain

As Israeli air strikes intensify across southern Lebanon, the impact on civilians and medical facilities has been devastating. Nabih Berri Government Hospital, located on a hilltop in Nabatieh, finds itself stretched to its limits. Mohammed, a 29-year-old civil engineer, recounts his harrowing experience after a nearby blast left him with severe burns while he was distributing food to elderly neighbors. His village, Arab Salim, is among the many civilian areas caught in the crossfire, bearing the brunt of these relentless attacks.

Medical professionals at Nabih Berri hospital are working tirelessly, with the facility receiving 20 to 30 casualties from air strikes daily. These patients include many civilians, some in critical condition. Dr. Hassan Wazni, the hospital director, faces the daunting task of securing enough fuel to keep life-saving equipment running, as government aid remains unavailable. Despite shortages in staff and resources, he and his team are committed to treating every injured person, regardless of their background.

Amid the chaos, the ongoing strikes have also taken a toll on Nabatieh’s historic landmarks. The October 16 attack destroyed the town’s beloved Ottoman-era souk, erasing centuries of cultural heritage in moments. Civil defense workers like Hussein Jaber, who grew up around the souk, now navigate the rubble, reflecting on the memories lost with the city’s destruction.

In a city that once bustled with life, the constant drone surveillance and sporadic air strikes have forced most residents to flee. Only a few hundred remain, largely those without the means to relocate. Meanwhile, Israel’s Defense Forces state that their operations target Hezbollah and assert efforts to minimize civilian harm. However, local residents and medical workers witness a different reality, as each day brings new casualties and challenges.

Despite the danger, first responders, doctors, and civil defense teams stand firm in their mission to support those who have nowhere else to turn. With limited resources and lives at stake, they continue to serve as a lifeline for those enduring the crisis. The determination of these workers is a testament to their resilience, even in the face of overwhelming odds

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