The Lebanon Civil Defense said in a statement that one of its rescuers was killed after an Israeli strike targeted him on a road connecting two towns in southern Lebanon.The organization said the attack occurred despite a truce that remains formally in effect between Israel and the Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah.

The incident came one day after another strike killed a rescuer affiliated with the Islamic Health Committee, according to Lebanese authorities.Israel has continued carrying out strikes across parts of Lebanon following weeks of conflict that began on March 2, saying its operations target Hezbollah fighters and military infrastructure.

On May 6, Israeli forces struck Beirut’s southern suburbs for the first time in nearly a month, killing what Israel described as a senior Hezbollah commander from the group’s elite Radwan force.The continuing attacks have intensified concerns among humanitarian agencies over the safety of medical and rescue personnel operating in conflict zones.

Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said earlier this week that the World Health Organization had verified 152 attacks on healthcare facilities and personnel in Lebanon since the conflict began.According to Tedros, those attacks resulted in 103 deaths and 241 injuries.International humanitarian law provides special protections for medical workers, emergency responders and healthcare infrastructure during armed conflicts.

Rights organizations have repeatedly called for investigations into attacks involving rescue and medical personnel in Lebanon and Gaza.

Reflecting on recent developments, including the September 9 Israeli operation in Qatar, Prince Turki called on Gulf states to strengthen cooperation and review their strategic policies to safeguard sovereignty and regional stability.

“Recent developments remind us of the importance of unity and resilience among Gulf nations,” Prince Turki said. “Our collective security and strategic planning are key to protecting our region and fostering a safe environment for all.”

Turning to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, he welcomed recent diplomatic progress toward a two-state solution, highlighting efforts led by Saudi Arabia and France that resulted in several countries recognizing Palestinian statehood at last week’s UN General Assembly.

“Recognizing the rights of the Palestinian people is a step toward lasting peace and stability in the region,” he said, stressing the role of justice, diplomacy, and international cooperation.

Prince Turki also reflected on his role in helping establish Arab News in 1975 and praised the newspaper for 50 years of reporting, highlighting the importance of journalism and open dialogue in addressing regional challenges.

He concluded by urging Gulf nations to focus on unity, resilience, and proactive diplomacy, emphasizing that cooperation and strategic planning are essential to navigate challenges while promoting peace and stability.