The current escalation of conflict is affecting 21 countries globally, including 14 countries in the Eastern Mediterranean Region, raising significant humanitarian and public health concerns.

The most severe health impacts have been reported in the Islamic Republic of Iran and Lebanon where hundreds of deaths and thousands of injuries have placed immense pressure on hospitals and trauma care services.

Population displacement is increasing, particularly in the Islamic Republic of Iran and Lebanon, as people leave their homes in response to airstrikes and evacuation orders. This is placing strain on shelters, health services and humanitarian support systems.

Attacks on health care have also been reported, with verified incidents affecting health facilities, personnel and medical assets.

Across the region, health emergency operations face operational constraints, including disruptions to airspace and maritime routes that impact the movement of humanitarian supplies and medical equipment.

WHO has activated its three-level Incident Management Support System and is working with ministries of health and partners to support emergency response, strengthen mass casualty management, maintain disease surveillance and ensure continuity of essential health services.