The Lebanese Ministry of Public Health has released updated casualty statistics indicating that Israeli military operations in Lebanon have resulted in 8,920 deaths and 30,595 injuries since the conflict escalated in October 2023. The data, compiled by the ministry, encompass civilian casualties across the country's southern and northern regions as well as the Bekaa Valley.
In addition to the overall toll, the ministry highlighted a specific surge in attacks targeting medical personnel. Since 2 March, Israeli forces have reportedly carried out 179 strikes on ambulance crews, leading to the deaths of 135 healthcare workers. The ministry described the pattern as a systematic targeting of emergency responders, complicating the delivery of aid to affected populations.
The figures were disclosed on Wednesday and are part of an ongoing effort by Lebanese authorities to document the humanitarian impact of the cross‑border hostilities. The ministry has called for international monitoring of the situation, emphasizing the need for protection of medical staff under international humanitarian law.
The reported numbers reflect a significant increase in civilian casualties compared with earlier phases of the conflict, according to the ministry's ongoing assessments. Health facilities in the south of Lebanon, which have been repeatedly hit, are operating at reduced capacity, and many patients are being transferred to hospitals farther inland.
The Lebanese government has reiterated its demand for an end to the attacks and for the establishment of a cease‑fire, while also urging the United Nations and other international bodies to investigate alleged violations of the laws of armed conflict.
The ministry's data will be incorporated into broader regional analyses of the conflict's humanitarian toll, which have highlighted the disproportionate impact on civilians and essential service providers.
Reporting attribution: based on reporting by Middle East Eye — original source: https://www.middleeasteye.net/live-blog/live-blog-update/israeli-attacks-lebanon-have-killed-nearly-9000-2023.