Lebanon’s First Responders Face Rising Casualties

Mohammed Suleiman, director of the Nabatiyeh Ambulance Service in Lebanon, mourns his son—a rescue assistant—killed by an Israeli drone strike. Since fighting between Israel and Hezbollah resumed in March, Lebanon’s first responders have experienced a record 110 deaths from Israeli airstrikes and drone attacks. Lebanon’s Ministry of Public Health alleges Israel deliberately targets health infrastructure in Shiite communities, damaging 131 emergency vehicles and several hospitals.

The Israel Defense Forces maintain they only strike military objectives, offering special protection to medical teams unless they engage in non-humanitarian actions. Paramedics are now using GoPro cameras to document their work and waiting 15 minutes after attacks to ensure safety, yet casualties continue.

Recent incidents include a “triple tap” attack in Mayfadoun on multiple ambulance teams and the deaths of two Civil Defense paramedics in Nabatiyeh. Despite the risks, and the loss of three team members since 2002, the Nabatiyeh Ambulance Service—politically unaffiliated—remains committed to providing aid, drawing strength from a sense of purpose and shared experience. The work continues amidst ongoing conflict and a recently announced, but fragile, ceasefire.