Beirut: The World Health Organization (WHO) chief on Thursday called on Israel to reverse an evacuation order affecting hospitals in Beirut, warning it endangers hundreds of patients and civilians.

According to Anadolu Agency, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, in a post on US social media company X, stated that the Israeli military had ordered the evacuation of the Jnah area. This area includes Rafik Hariri University Hospital and Al Zahraa Hospital, both of which play critical roles in providing medical care.

He elaborated that there are no alternative medical facilities available to accommodate approximately 450 patients from these hospitals, including 40 who are in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). This lack of alternatives makes the evacuation operation unfeasible.

Both hospitals are currently operating at full capacity, providing treatment to individuals wounded in Israeli strikes conducted on Wednesday. The Jnah area is not only home to these hospitals but also includes the Health Ministry complex and shelters hosting more than 5,000 people.

Tedros urged Israel to reverse the evacuation order, emphasizing the need to protect all health facilities, health workers, patients, and civilians in the region.

The Israeli military conducted one of its largest strikes in Lebanon on Wednesday since the onset of its offensive against Hezbollah last month. The attacks resulted in at least 254 fatalities and 1,165 injuries, as reported by Lebanon’s Civil Defense.

This escalation has intensified concerns about a possible renewed Israeli occupation of southern Lebanon, which could potentially extend up to the Litani River.