The World Health Organization (WHO) warned Wednesday that the ongoing conflict in the Middle East is placing incredible pressure on health systems, with rising injuries, displacement, and continued attacks on health care facilities.
The organization stated in a press release that the escalation has led to hundreds of deaths and injuries, and that attacks on more than 43 health care facilities in the region have resulted in the deaths of over 24 and injuries to more than 29 health workers.
The consequences of this conflict go beyond its immediate impact, posing wider public health risks. Current estimates indicate that over 700,000 people have been internally displaced, with many ending up in overcrowded shelters under worsening public health conditions, WHO noted.
It emphasized that these conditions increase the risk of respiratory infections, diarrhoeal diseases, and other communicable illnesses, particularly among the most vulnerable populations, such as women and children.