Lebanese Red Cross: Rescue efforts at risk as hospitals shut down in southern Lebanon

The Secretary-General of the Lebanese Red Cross (LRC), Georges Kettaneh, reaffirmed the organization's commitment to maintaining its operations across Lebanon.

In an interview with Roya on Saturday, Kettaneh highlighted the challenges of ensuring safe passage for their teams, especially in Dahieh, southern Beirut. He expressed concern over delays in establishing secure routes for the protection of staff members.

Kettaneh confirmed that four hospitals in southern Lebanon have ceased operations, including Marjayoun Governmental Hospital, Bint Jbeil Governmental Hospital, and Salah Ghandour Hospital.

This shutdown has significantly hampered rescue efforts, with Kettaneh noting that the only medical presence in those regions is provided by the LRC.

Addressing threats from the Israeli Occupation to target ambulance crews, Kettaneh called for the protection of all ambulance teams in Lebanon.

He emphasized the organization's commitment to international law and the Geneva Convention, underscoring the importance of safeguarding humanitarian efforts in times of crisis.