GENEVA(The COW News Digital) The World Health Organization (WHO) has confirmed that at least 13 hospitals in Iran and one medical facility in Lebanon have been struck during U.S. and Israeli military operations, raising serious concerns about violations of international law.
During a press briefing, WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus emphasized that health facilities are protected under international humanitarian law and should never be targeted in armed conflicts. The attacks have caused both structural damage and disruption of essential medical services in the affected areas.
Dr. Hanan Balkhi, WHO Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean, reported that four ambulances in Iran were damaged during the attacks, while several hospitals and clinics suffered minor structural damage. In Lebanon, precautionary evacuations following Israeli warnings led to temporary closure of multiple medical centers, further limiting access to healthcare for civilians.
The ongoing conflict in the region has led to widespread humanitarian concerns. Since the onset of hostilities, thousands have been killed in Iran and Lebanon, and mass displacement continues. Estimates suggest that approximately 100,000 people have fled Iran, while around 60,000 have been displaced in Lebanon. Many of these movements occurred before official evacuation orders were issued in southern Beirut and surrounding areas.
Earlier reports from the United Nations indicated that at least ten medical facilities in Iran were directly affected by the attacks. The WHO stresses the urgent need for all parties to ensure protection of healthcare infrastructure and uninterrupted medical services, especially for vulnerable populations.
“The large-scale human displacement and damage to healthcare services highlight the devastating impact of armed conflict on civilians,” Dr. Ghebreyesus said. “It is imperative that all warring parties respect international norms and prioritize the safety of patients, medical staff, and critical infrastructure.”
Health organizations and humanitarian agencies are now calling for immediate international intervention to prevent further attacks on medical facilities and to provide essential aid to displaced populations. The ongoing escalation underscores the urgent need for diplomatic efforts to restore peace and stability in the region.
