- The conflict in the Middle East is putting immense pressure on the region’s health systems, with injuries and displacement on the rise.
- Attacks on healthcare facilities and workers are becoming increasingly common, disrupting essential services and putting lives at risk.
- The conflict is causing significant numbers of deaths and injuries, with over 1300 reported deaths and 9000 injuries in Iran alone.
- Public health risks are increasing as a result of the conflict, with concerns about the spread of diseases and the long-term impact on affected populations.
- The World Health Organization has warned of a deepening health crisis in the Middle East, with humanitarian tolls expected to continue rising.
More than ten days into the latest escalation of conflict in the Middle East, health systems across the Region are coming under strain as injuries and displacement rise, attacks on health care continue, and public health risks increase. The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned of a deepening health crisis, with national health authorities in several countries reporting significant numbers of deaths and injuries. The conflict is affecting the very services meant to save lives, with reports of attacks on health care facilities and workers.
Humanitarian Toll
National health authorities in Iran report more than 1300 deaths and 9000 injuries, and in Lebanon report at least 570 deaths and more than 1400 injuries. In Israel, authorities report 15 deaths and 2142 injuries. The numbers are likely to rise as the conflict continues, and there are concerns about the long-term impact on the health and wellbeing of affected populations. The humanitarian toll of the conflict is already being felt, with many people forced to flee their homes and seek shelter in safer areas.
Attacks on Health Care
At the same time, the conflict is affecting the very services meant to save lives. In Iran, WHO has verified 18 attacks on health care facilities, including hospitals and clinics, which have resulted in the deaths of health workers and patients. These attacks have also damaged equipment and infrastructure, making it even harder for health services to cope with the influx of injured people. The WHO has condemned these attacks, which are a violation of international humanitarian law and put the lives of thousands of people at risk.
What to Watch
As the conflict continues, the international community will be watching for signs of a humanitarian catastrophe. The WHO and other health organizations will be working to support national health authorities in responding to the crisis, including providing emergency medical supplies and personnel. The next few days will be critical in determining the trajectory of the health crisis, and all parties to the conflict must take steps to protect health care facilities and workers, and to allow humanitarian access to affected areas.