Naija News • 1h ago
WHO confirms 13 attacks on health facilities in Iran as US/Israel-Iran War continues
**US/Israel-Iran War Wreaks Havoc on Middle East Healthcare**
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has confirmed 13 attacks on healthcare facilities in Iran since the outbreak of the ongoing US/Israel-Iran war. This alarming development has raised concerns about the public health consequences of the conflict, which has already claimed over 1,000 lives, displaced over 100,000 people, and affected at least 16 countries in the region.
According to WHO's Director-General, Tedros Ghebreyesus, these attacks on healthcare facilities, including one in Lebanon, are a clear violation of international humanitarian law. He urged all parties involved in the conflict to uphold international law and protect hospitals, health workers, and patients.
The WHO chief warned that the war poses a significant threat to health systems across the Middle East, disrupting healthcare services and affecting the delivery of medical care and humanitarian support. In fact, the ongoing hostilities have forced the temporary shutdown of WHO's Logistics Hub for Global Health Emergencies in Dubai, a key global supply centre used to dispatch emergency medical supplies, medicines, and laboratory materials to countries responding to health crises.
This development is a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of conflict on public health. In Nigeria, we've seen firsthand the impact of violence on healthcare delivery, particularly in the Northeast where terrorist activities have disrupted healthcare services.
The WHO is working closely with its country offices across affected countries to monitor the situation and provide assistance where necessary. As the conflict continues, it's essential that all parties involved prioritize the protection of healthcare infrastructure and personnel to prevent further disruptions to healthcare services.
In conclusion, the ongoing US/Israel-Iran war is taking a devastating toll on healthcare delivery in the Middle East, and it's imperative that the international community takes immediate action to address this crisis and protect the vulnerable populations affected by the conflict.