The Israeli Health Ministry has issued guidance to hospitals today on preparing for prolonged operations
By Bernie,
The Israeli Health Ministry has issued guidance to hospitals today on preparing for prolonged operations in underground shelters, drawing on lessons from the 12-day war with Iran in June 2025, according to documents received by BNN.
The Medical Directorate document details findings from a study of approximately 1,500 healthcare workers who operated in protected underground spaces during Operation Rising Lion. The study, conducted by Prof. Sharon Toker of Tel Aviv University, found that direct missile hits that penetrated Israel's air defense envelope "highlighted the need for significant protection, far beyond what was required in other conflicts."
The report notes hospitals rapidly converted basements and parking garages into hospitalization areas, installing electrical infrastructure, lighting, communications, oxygen, and water systems. However, conditions became increasingly difficult the longer staff and patients remained underground: extreme crowding, lack of privacy, limited access to sanitary facilities, constant lighting that blurred day and night, and cumulative noise from medical equipment.
Key recommendations include pre-planning designated underground locations for each department, preparing pre-packed equipment, installing privacy partitions, creating dedicated staff rest areas, and planning scheduled breaks for medical teams to access fresh air and daylight.
A separate document from the National Center for Infection Control provides detailed protocols for preventing infections during extended underground stays, including dry bathing procedures using chlorhexidine wipes and isolation protocols for patients with resistant pathogens.
Topics: Iran, Missile Defense & Alerts
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