The Israeli military announced on Saturday that it might target ambulances and medical facilities being used by Hezbollah in Lebanon, claiming that Hezbollah is misusing these services for military purposes. The Israeli military’s spokesman, Avichai Adraee, stated that if Hezbollah does not stop this practice, Israel will take action in accordance with international law against such military activities. Hezbollah has denied these claims.
Since March 2, at least 26 medics and first responders have been killed in Israeli strikes, according to the Lebanese Health Ministry, while the Israeli military insists it tries to minimize harm to civilians. On March 2, Hezbollah began firing at Israel, claiming it was retaliating for a prior killing during the U. S.-Israeli tensions over Iran. This led to extensive Israeli bombings against Hezbollah, resulting in over 700 deaths and mass displacement in Lebanon.
Israel has also threatened to inflict damage on Lebanon similar to that seen in Gaza during its conflict with Hamas, stating intentions to attack infrastructure exploited by Hezbollah. International law protects civilian infrastructure, including medical facilities, but they can lose that status under certain conditions.
Israel has stepped up troop deployment to its northern border and plans to intensify its campaign against Hezbollah. Hezbollah’s leader stated that they are ready for a prolonged conflict. An Israeli official indicated that the debate on targeting civilian infrastructure is ongoing.
With information from Reuters
