The escalating conflict in the Middle East is rapidly overwhelming healthcare systems across the region, triggering a surge in injuries, displacement, and public health risks. The World Health Organization (WHO) is sounding the alarm as attacks on healthcare facilities increase and access to essential medical services becomes increasingly constrained. This crisis unfolds against a backdrop of already strained humanitarian needs in the Eastern Mediterranean Region, where 115 million people currently require assistance – nearly half of all those in need globally according to recent reports.
National authorities report a grim toll: over 1300 deaths and 9000 injuries in Iran, at least 570 deaths and more than 1400 injuries in Lebanon, and 15 deaths and 2142 injuries in Israel as of March 12, 2026. Beyond the immediate casualties, the conflict is creating a cascade of public health challenges, threatening to destabilize already fragile systems.
The WHO has verified 18 attacks on healthcare facilities in Iran since February 28, resulting in eight deaths among health workers. In Lebanon, 25 such attacks have led to 16 deaths and 29 injuries. These deliberate attacks not only claim lives but also deprive communities of critical care when We see needed most, violating international humanitarian law which mandates the protection of health workers, patients, and facilities.
Displacement and Public Health Risks
The conflict is driving mass displacement, exacerbating public health vulnerabilities. More than 100,000 people in Iran have been forced to relocate due to insecurity, while up to 700,000 have been internally displaced in Lebanon. Many of these displaced individuals are sheltering in crowded conditions with limited access to safe water, sanitation, and hygiene, increasing the risk of respiratory infections, diarrheal diseases, and other communicable illnesses, particularly among women and children.
Environmental hazards are also a growing concern. In Iran, fires at petroleum facilities and smoke from damaged infrastructure have exposed communities to toxic pollutants, potentially causing breathing problems, eye and skin irritation, and contaminating water and food sources.
Healthcare Access Severely Limited
Access to healthcare is becoming increasingly restricted across multiple countries. In Lebanon, 49 primary healthcare centers and five hospitals have been forced to close following evacuation orders issued by Israel’s military, significantly reducing the availability of essential services. In the occupied Palestinian territory, increased movement restrictions and checkpoint closures are hindering access for ambulances and mobile clinics in several governorates of the West Bank.
Gaza continues to face a dire situation, with medical evacuations suspended since February 28. Hospitals are operating under immense strain due to shortages of medicines, medical supplies, and fuel, which is being rationed to prioritize emergency and trauma care, maternal and neonatal services, and the management of communicable diseases.
Supply Chain Disruptions Hamper Response
Temporary airspace restrictions are disrupting the delivery of vital medical supplies from the WHO’s global logistics hub in Dubai. More than 50 emergency supply requests, intended to benefit over 1.5 million people across 25 countries, are facing significant backlogs. Priority shipments, including supplies for Gaza, Lebanon, and Afghanistan, are delayed. The first shipment of cholera response supplies for Mozambique is expected to depart in the coming week.
The current escalation occurs at a time when humanitarian needs in the Eastern Mediterranean Region are already at a critical level. Health emergency appeals remain 70% underfunded, further compounding the challenges faced by aid organizations and healthcare providers.
The WHO is urgently calling on all parties to protect civilians and healthcare facilities, ensure unimpeded and sustained humanitarian access, and pursue de-escalation of the conflict to allow communities to begin the long process of recovery and rebuild towards peace. Without these critical steps, the strain on vulnerable populations and already fragile health systems will only continue to grow.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.
This is a developing story. We will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available. Share your thoughts in the comments below.
