The World Health Organisation, WHO, has launched a $30.3 million flash appeal to support emergency health interventions across conflict-affected countries in the Middle East, warning that millions of lives are at risk as violence escalates.
The appeal, which covers March to August 2026, targets critical health needs in Lebanon, Iran, Iraq, the Syria, and Jordan, where health systems are under severe pressure following weeks of intensified hostilities, mass displacement, and rising casualties.
According to WHO, more than 4.3 million people have been displaced across the region, with thousands killed and tens of thousands injured, placing unprecedented strain on already fragile health systems.
“Hospitals and frontline health facilities are facing surging trauma caseloads while struggling to maintain routine services,” the organisation said.
It warned that essential healthcare services, including treatment for chronic illnesses, maternal care, and child health, are increasingly at risk of disruption.
The agency further raised concerns over worsening public health conditions, noting that damaged water systems, overcrowded shelters, and declining immunisation coverage are heightening the risk of disease outbreaks.
To address the growing crisis, WHO said the funds would be used to prioritise trauma and emergency care, ensure continuity of essential health services, and strengthen disease surveillance and early warning systems.
“We are working closely with ministries of health, UN partners, and humanitarian organisations to ensure a timely and coordinated response,” WHO stated.
The organisation also disclosed plans to reinforce supply chains and logistics to guarantee the delivery of critical medicines and medical equipment, particularly as traditional transport routes remain disrupted.
In addition, the response will support countries to manage mass casualty incidents and enhance preparedness for chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear risks, while strengthening emergency coordination systems.
The appeal follows WHO’s earlier release of $2 million from its Contingency Fund for Emergencies to kick-start urgent health interventions, including $1 million for Lebanon and $500,000 each for Iraq and Syria.
However, the agency warned that the scale of the crisis is outpacing available resources.
“The escalation comes at a time when humanitarian funding is tightening globally, even as health needs continue to grow rapidly,” WHO said, cautioning that without additional funding, the gap between needs and available services will widen significantly.
Stakeholders say the situation underscores the urgent need for sustained international support to prevent further deterioration of health conditions across the region.
