Amel Association International strongly condemns the repeated targeting of journalists and healthcare workers in Lebanon, amid ongoing escalation that threatens civilian lives and undermines the fundamental principles of international humanitarian law.
Recent data points to a rapidly deteriorating and dangerous situation. According to the World Health Organization, more than 50 attacks on healthcare facilities have been recorded in Lebanon, disrupting essential medical services in several areas and putting the lives of thousands of patients at risk. These attacks have also resulted in the killing and injury of healthcare workers while carrying out their humanitarian duties.
In the same context, the Committee to Protect Journalists reported that at least four journalists were killed today while covering events, with several others injured, in a clear violation of press freedom and the right to access information.
This comes amid a worsening humanitarian crisis in Lebanon, where the number of displaced people has exceeded 1.2 million, including more than 370,000 children. Over 125,800 individuals are currently living in collective shelters, increasing pressure on the healthcare system and intensifying the need for urgent and sustainable medical services.
These figures reflect a deeply alarming reality. Violations are not limited to infrastructure, but extend to those who form the first line of defense in conveying the truth and saving lives. Targeting journalists constitutes a direct attack on media freedom, while targeting healthcare workers represents a grave violation of the right to health, especially in the context of unprecedented humanitarian needs.
Amel Association International affirms that journalists and workers in the health and humanitarian sectors are civilians who must be protected at all times, and that any attack against them constitutes a clear violation of international humanitarian law. The continuation of such violations exacerbates the humanitarian crisis and directly limits the ability of humanitarian actors to reach the most vulnerable populations.
The organization calls for an immediate cessation of all forms of targeting, full respect for international law, and the facilitation of safe, rapid, and unimpeded humanitarian access to all affected areas.
Amel reiterates its commitment to continuing its humanitarian work across Lebanon, despite the challenges, to ensure the sustained provision of healthcare services and psychosocial support to those most in need.
Protecting those who convey the truth and those who save lives is not a choice, but a responsibility.
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