At least six people were killed and eight injured as Israeli carried out air strikes targeting central Beirut last night. Another 46 people were killed and 85 injured in Israeli attacks across Lebanon in the last one day, Lebanon’s Health Ministry confirmed.
In the face of ongoing conflict and humanitarian crises, the United Nations is stepping up efforts to combat polio in Gaza, preparing for a second round of vaccination aimed at protecting 640,000 children. Spokesperson Stephane Dujarric highlighted that the initial round, which started on September 1, successfully immunized 90 percent of children under 10, a crucial step considering the resurgence of polio in the region. The World Health Organization’s alarming report of a Palestinian baby partially paralyzed by the type 2 polio virus underscores the urgency of these efforts, marking the first such case in 25 years.
As the UN focuses on health, the region remains embroiled in violence, exemplified by recent Israeli airstrikes that claimed the lives of four children and three adults in the Bekaa Valley. The destructive power of these strikes, which even damaged surrounding homes, paints a stark picture of the precarious situation for civilians caught in the crossfire.
Meanwhile, tensions continue to escalate with Hezbollah’s missile attack on an Israeli military helicopter, marking a significant moment in the ongoing conflict. Satellite imagery revealing damage to the Nevatim airbase, home to Israel’s advanced F-35 fighter jets, adds a new layer of complexity to the situation. This escalation of hostilities, coupled with humanitarian challenges, presents a dire scenario for both health and safety in the region.
In addition to vaccinations, the upcoming campaign will also distribute vitamin supplements, aiming to bolster the health of vulnerable children. The international community must rally behind these efforts, recognizing that in times of war, protecting the health and future of children is paramount. The stakes have never been higher; with conflict and disease threatening to destabilize the lives of countless families, coordinated global action is essential.
