Beirut, Lebanon – A senior Lebanese military official stated that the Lebanese Army Command urgently contacted the Israeli side, through the US-led international coordination mechanism,
to demand the opening of a safe passage and the granting of access to a journalist injured in the recent shelling.
The official explained that the Lebanese military action was prompted by the deteriorating health of the injured journalist
and the presence of obstacles preventing ambulance and Red Cross teams from carrying out their duties.
He also emphasized the need to respect international laws
that guarantee the protection of media and medical personnel in conflict zones.
International coordination and American mediation
The military source confirmed that the Lebanese army preferred to use the diplomatic and military channels overseen
by Washington to ensure the safety of the humanitarian mission and avoid any clashes on the ground that could escalate the situation.
This mechanism serves as a vital link for exchanging urgent messages
between the Lebanese and Israeli sides in the absence of direct communication.
The current Lebanese request aims to secure a commitment to a temporary ceasefire in the vicinity of the targeted area.
This would allow medics to evacuate the wounded and ensure the safety of journalists trapped under fire.
Relief efforts under fire
The official explained that the Civil Defense and Lebanese Red Cross teams are on high alert,
awaiting the green light to begin the rescue operation.
He also noted that the area where the injured journalist is located continues
to experience heavy drone activity and ongoing military operations.
These efforts come at a critical time, as Lebanese authorities
are seeking international pressure to prevent the targeting of non-combatant personnel.
Furthermore, they aim to ensure the delivery of emergency medical
aid to prevent further casualties among civilians and media workers.
Protection of journalists and international conventions
The senior military official stressed that protecting journalists and ensuring
their safety is a responsibility incumbent upon all parties under international conventions.
He also noted that the Lebanese army is following the matter at the highest levels to guarantee
that medical personnel are not subjected to any attacks while carrying out their duties.
He pointed out that this incident puts the effectiveness of security agreements and international mediation efforts to the test,
especially given the repeated targeting of journalists in border villages and towns in southern Lebanon.
This necessitates a firm international response to ensure that such violations of human rights are not repeated.
