Published on April 8, 2026
The World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) have issued a grave warning regarding the escalation of violence amid the ongoing conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran. They report a disturbing increase in attacks on healthcare facilities, which have dire implications for the health and safety of civilians in Iran.
Since March, the WHO has confirmed more than 20 attacks on healthcare institutions across Iran. These assaults have led to significant casualties and have forced multiple healthcare facilities to close their doors, depriving many of essential medical services. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus stated, “Attacks on healthcare are not only a violation of international humanitarian law but also a threat to the health and well-being of patients and healthcare workers.”
The UNDP echoed these concerns, emphasizing the need for immediate protection of medical facilities and personnel. The organization underscored that the ongoing violence risks undermining the progress made in healthcare initiatives over the past years. With many healthcare workers facing intense pressure and danger, the impact on public health could be catastrophic if the situation continues unaddressed.
Reports indicate that many hospitals have been caught in crossfire, with infrastructure damaged during military operations. This destruction ultimately limits healthcare access for the most vulnerable populations, including those in urgent need of medical attention.
As international bodies call for a cessation of attacks on healthcare, the situation remains precarious. Both WHO and UNDP are urging all parties involved in the conflict to respect international humanitarian laws and prioritize the protection of innocent civilians and health facilities.
The humanitarian crisis continues to unfold, raising alarms over the potential for increased mortality and morbidity rates among the affected populations. The message from these global health organizations is clear: protecting health services and infrastructure must be a priority in times of conflict to prevent further loss of life.
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