Surgeon Treats War-Wounded Children Amid Escalating Conflict in Lebanon

British-Palestinian surgeon Ghassan Abu-Sittah is providing critical care to children injured in recent Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon, drawing on his extensive experience in conflict zones.

At the American University of Beirut Medical Center, Abu-Sittah has been treating severe pediatric injuries resulting from the ongoing conflict. He described the cases as "blast injuries, shrapnel, rubble, really devastating injuries."

The Lebanese Health Ministry reports that at least 687 people, including 98 children, have been killed between March 2 and 12.

Abu-Sittah, who has previously worked in Gaza, Iraq, Syria, and Yemen, noted the similarities between the injuries sustained by children in Lebanon and those he treated in Gaza. He emphasized that "all wars are waged on children," highlighting the profound impact of conflict on the youngest and most vulnerable.

In response to the crisis, Abu-Sittah established the Ghassan Abu-Sittah Children's Fund in 2024, aiming to provide medical care and ongoing support to wounded children in Gaza and Lebanon. The fund has cared for nearly 180 children, including 19 Palestinians from Gaza and 158 Lebanese, all scarred by Israel's bombs.

The escalating violence has also affected healthcare facilities and workers in Lebanon. The Health Ministry reports that 40 health workers have been killed and 119 wounded, with several hospitals forced to evacuate due to persistent bombardment.

Abu-Sittah expressed concern about the long-term impact on children, stating, "It leaves us with a generation of physically wounded children, children who are psychologically and emotionally wounded."

The ongoing conflict continues to pose significant challenges for medical professionals and humanitarian organizations striving to provide care and support to the affected population.