More than 1,800 people have died and at least 12,500 others have been injured in Iran, Lebanon and Israel since the start of the current escalation in the Middle East, said World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
“More than ten days into the escalation of the conflict in the Middle East, health systems are under immense pressure,” he wrote on his X page. “Reports show over 1,300 deaths and 9,000 injuries in Iran, at least 570 deaths and over 1,400 injuries in Lebanon, and 15 deaths with 2,142 injuries in Israel.”
According to the WHO chief, the number of attacks on health facilities in the region is increasing. Thus, according to him, since February 28, the organization recorded 18 such attacks in Iran, 25 in Lebanon and two in Israel. “These attacks not only take lives, but also deprive communities of critical care when they need it most,” he stressed.
“Public health risks are increasing, with over 100,000 people in Iran and up to 700,000 in Lebanon displaced in deteriorating conditions, facing limited access to clean water and sanitation. Vulnerable populations, especially women and children, are at increased risk of disease,” he wrote. “WHO calls on all parties to protect civilians and healthcare, ensure unhindered humanitarian access, and work towards reducing tensions. Urgency for action is essential to prevent the collapse of already fragile health systems and support the recovery of affected communities.”
