Israeli strike kills 12 paramedics at Lebanon medical center, ministry says

At least 12 paramedics were killed Friday and one injured when an Israeli airstrike hit a medical center and clinic run by the Islamic Health Authority in Bourj Qalawayh in southern Lebanon, according to Lebanon's National News Agency. The Health Ministry condemned the attack, saying it violated international humanitarian law as rescue operations continued to search for missing persons.

Rescue operations ongoing

"This is the initial toll as rescue operations continue to search for missing persons," the ministry said in a statement, suggesting the death toll could rise as emergency teams work through the rubble. The attack on medical personnel marks a significant escalation in the campaign's impact on healthcare infrastructure.

Conflict context

Hezbollah began targeting Israeli military sites March 2 in response to Israeli attacks on Lebanon despite a November 2024 ceasefire and the killing of Iranian then-Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in Tehran. Israel expanded its campaign the same day with airstrikes on Beirut's southern suburbs, and areas in southern and eastern Lebanon. On March 3, Israel also launched a limited ground incursion into southern Lebanon after beginning a joint military campaign with the US against Iran on Feb. 28.

Mounting toll

Lebanese authorities said Thursday that Israel's expanded attacks have killed 733 people, injured 1,933 and displaced 822,000. The killing of paramedics adds to growing concerns about the protection of medical personnel and facilities under international humanitarian law, which explicitly prohibits targeting healthcare workers and infrastructure.