WHO warns of disease outbreak in Lebanon amid hospital closures and escalating conflict with Israel

BEIRUT — In the wake of Israeli ground operations in southwestern Lebanon, which have resulted in over 1,000 deaths in the past two weeks and widespread displacement, the World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a dire warning about the potential spread of preventable diseases, including diarrhea and hepatitis.

During a press conference in Geneva, Ian Clark, WHO’s representative in Lebanon, expressed concern over the deteriorating public health situation. He noted that five hospitals in Lebanon are now completely out of service, while four others are operating at reduced capacity due to damage from the conflict and the evacuation of medical personnel, either out of fear or at the request of authorities.

Clark emphasized the urgent need for health infrastructure support, warning that the closure of hospitals could exacerbate the risk of disease outbreaks, particularly in vulnerable areas already struggling with displacement and a lack of clean water.

Matthew Hollingsworth, director of the World Food Program (WFP) in Lebanon, echoed these concerns, warning of Lebanon’s growing food insecurity. He highlighted that ongoing conflict is preventing the harvest of crops, which are now at risk of spoilage from mold and other factors. This disruption could have severe consequences for Lebanon’s ability to sustain itself.

Hospitals in southern Lebanon have been particularly hard-hit, with many rendered inoperable due to Israeli airstrikes. As the violence continues, humanitarian organizations are struggling to maintain essential services and prevent further escalation of the public health crisis.