The Israeli military is doubling down on its claim that Hezbollah is storing cash, equipment, and possibly arms beneath Beirut’s Sahel Hospital, in Lebanon’s heavily bombarded Dahiyeh district. Israeli military spokesperson Avichay Adraee released a video alleging that a “suspicious wall” inside the hospital serves as a bunker entrance—an accusation Lebanese officials and international media have widely contested. Journalists visiting the site report no evidence of an underground Hezbollah network, casting doubt on Israel’s claims and fueling international skepticism.
This isn’t the first time Israel has pointed to alleged militant activity in medical facilities. Similar claims have been used to justify strikes on hospitals in Gaza, sparking intense global debate over the protection of civilian sites during military operations. Human rights groups have repeatedly warned against targeting hospitals, citing violations of humanitarian law and the severe humanitarian toll such attacks take. But Israel contends that Hezbollah exploits civilian infrastructure, from schools to hospitals, as cover for its operations, leaving Israel with what it calls “no choice” but to strike.
Israel’s persistence in targeting alleged militant strongholds within medical sites is stoking criticism from international watchdogs, who argue that targeting healthcare infrastructure risks escalating the conflict and endangering civilians. As tensions mount, the world watches closely, aware that the region is teetering on the edge of wider hostilities. This latest dispute over Lebanon’s hospital reinforces the delicate balance between security measures and civilian protection, leaving global leaders on high alert.
