Israel threatens to target ambulances in Lebanon, alleging ‘misuse’ by Hezbollah

ANKARA (AA) – The Israeli army has threatened to target ambulances in southern Lebanon, claiming they are being misused by Hezbollah to “transport fighters and weapons.”

Israeli army spokesperson Avichay Adraee alleged that intelligence has revealed “Hezbollah elements are using ambulances to transport fighters and arms.” He warned that any vehicle found to be carrying fighters would be at risk, stating, “The Israeli army will take the necessary measures against any vehicle carrying armed elements, whether it is an ambulance or otherwise.”

Adraee also issued a direct warning to residents in southern Lebanon, instructing them to avoid their homes and refrain from traveling south. “The Israeli army continues to target Hezbollah positions in or near your villages. It is forbidden for you to return home until further notice,” the statement read, emphasizing that movement southward would “risk their lives.”

The Israeli army has previously targeted ambulances in Gaza, asserting that Hamas was using them to transport fighters and weapons. It was one such instance of targeting and shooting at ambulances that led to the killing of rescuers coming to save 6 year old Hind Rajab who was locked in her car with dead relatives in the line of fire from Israeli tanks.

The targeting of medical facilities including ambulances constitutes a war crime and cannot be permitted under any circumstances.

Israel has mounted massive airstrikes across Lebanon against what it alleges are ‘Hezbollah targets’ since September 23, killing at least 1,411 people, injuring over 3,970 others, and displacing more than 1.34 million people.