Lebanon Faces Health Care Crisis Amid Ceasefire as Residents Return to War-Torn South

As a fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah takes effect, Lebanon grapples with the aftermath of a devastating cross-border conflict. Health care, already weakened by years of economic collapse, is now on the brink of collapse, particularly in southern regions that bore the brunt of war. 

Rabih Torbay, CEO of humanitarian organization Project Hope, highlighted the dire state of health services in Lebanon. After a visit to the Southern border earlier this month, he reported that local communities lack even the most basic medical supplies. 

“People told me, ‘We can survive on less food or water if we must, but without medicine for chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension, we’re doomed,’” Torbay said. Clinics and hospitals have been decimated by bombings and a lack of resources, leaving me unable to provide critical care. 

During the conflict,  the availability of essential medicines dwindled to zero in some areas. Hospitals struggled with destroyed infrastructure, limited electricity due to fuel shortages, and loss of medical staff fleeing violence.  The influx of nearly a million displaced people to central and northern Lebanon further strained facilities that were already operating at maximum capacity. 

Public clinics designed to serve 10 to 20 patients daily were suddenly overwhelmed with over 100 patients per day. Supplies of medication ran out, and healthcare workers became overburdened, especially in so-called “safer areas” away from active conflict zones. 

Hope Amid Ceasefire 

ceasefire agreement, brokered by the United States and France, has allowed for tentative optimism in Lebanon. Thousands of displaced residents are now returning to southern villages, greeted by Lebanese army regiments moving in to take control. Jubilant celebrations erupted in towns like Qlayaa in the Marjayoun district, where residents welcomed the army with cheers and traditional gestures of respect, including throwing rice. 

Under terms of the ceasefire, Israel has agreed to withdraw all its forces from southern Lebanon, leaving security to the Lebanese military and United Nations peacekeepers. However, skepticism remains.  The Israeli military warned residents against returning to areas south of the Litani River, citing ongoing security risks. 

A Long Road to Recovery 

While the ceasefire holds, rebuilding Lebanon’s healthcare system presents an urgent challenge. “Replenishing medical supplies, restoring clinics, and ensuring emergency care capabilities must be top priorities,” Torbay emphasized. 

The international community has begun to respond. Aid groups are mobilizing resources, while the Lebanese government is coordinating efforts to reopen schools and restore basic services. Schools, many of which served as makeshift shelters, are expected to resume classes next week, according to the Education Ministry. 

Still, tensions remain high. Just hours after the truce began, the Israeli military reported firing at vehicles in southern Lebanon attempting to approach restricted areas.  The situation remains precarious, with Israeli officials stating that ceasefire violations will not be tolerated. 

Regional Implications 

The Lebanon-Israel ceasefire has garnered mixed reactions from the international community. While countries like Jordan, Turkey, and Iran have welcomed the truce as a beacon of hope for the region, or remain cautious about its longevity. 

Meanwhile, conflicts in nearby regions persist. In Gaza, Israel continues its offensive against Hamas, accusing the group of sheltering militants in schools and hospitals. In Syria, clashes between rebels and government forces in Aleppo signal a new wave of unrest. 

For Lebanon, the coming weeks will be critical in determining where peace can take root and where its struggling healthcare system can be revived to meet the needs of its people.