NNA - In a press conference held on Wednesday at the Ministry of Public Health, Dr. Firas Abiad, Lebanon's Caretaker Health Minister, provided an updated toll of the recent Israeli security and technical breach. 

Minister Abiad began by extending his condolences to the victims and wishing a swift recovery for the injured, while expressing gratitude to both the public and private healthcare sectors for their unified, dedicated response without concern for material or financial gain.

Minister Abiad then detailed the magnitude of the attack, noting that within half an hour, emergency rooms were inundated with 2,700 wounded individuals. He highlighted that this sudden influx overwhelmed the healthcare system, but praised the effectiveness of the emergency plans and training provided by the Ministry of Public Health, which played a crucial role in the response. 

The updated casualty figures are as follows: 12 confirmed deaths, including two children (an 8-year-old girl and an 11-year-old boy). 

The number of injured ranges from 2,750 to 2,800, with approximately 10% in critical condition, requiring intensive care. Among the injured, 1,800 were hospitalized, with 460 requiring surgery for severe injuries.

Minister Abiad also reported international support, noting that aid from Iraq has already arrived, with additional assistance expected from Iran and Jordan. He emphasized that while some patients are being evacuated to Syria and potentially Iran, 92% of cases will be treated within Lebanon.

The Minister concluded by urging the media to ensure accuracy in reporting and to verify information with the Ministry, acknowledging the challenge of maintaining readiness and addressing crowd management issues surrounding hospitals.

========R.H.