Middle East Escalation of Conflict
Situation report No.2

KEY HIGHLIGHTS

• As of 18 March, compared to 11 March, the number of casualties has increased. In Iran, deaths have increased from 1,255 to 1,444 and injuries from 15,100 to over 19,300. In Lebanon, deaths have risen from 634 to over 900, and injuries from 1,586 to over 2,220. Displacement has also escalated, with the number of displaced people in Lebanon increasing from nearly 800,000 to over 1 million, while in Iran up to 3.2 million people are now displaced, according to a preliminary UNHCR assessment. Attacks on health care have also increased in both countries: in Lebanon, the number of attacks has risen from 25 to 33, with related deaths doubling from 16 to 31, while in Iran, the number of attacks has increased from 18 to 20.

• Strikes on energy infrastructure, including oil depots and refineries in Iran, Iraq, and several Gulf countries, are increasing environmental health risks, while damages to desalination infrastructure in Iran and several Gulf countries raise concerns about water safety and security.

• The Ministry of Health of Iran has requested additional polio, rotavirus, and diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis (DTP) vaccines. WHO will coordinate closely with UNICEF to support (ctd..)procurement and delivery. WHO is also working with the Ministry of Health to roll out mental health and psychosocial support for health care workers, building on WHO’s MPHSS Framework.

• In Lebanon, the health system remains under substantial strain amid ongoing displacement, attacks on health care, and disrupted services. WHO continues to scale up support through strengthened coordination, expanded trauma care, delivery of essential supplies, and enhanced disease surveillance and early warning systems. An additional US$ 37 million is urgently needed for the health cluster response under the Lebanon UN Flash Appeal (March-May 2026).

• In Syria, increased cross-border arrivals from Lebanon are raising demand for health services at border areas, including trauma care, reproductive health and mental health support.

• In Iraq, the evolving security situation and movement restrictions are placing pressure on hospitals, disrupting ambulance access, patient referrals, and public health functions.

• Across GCC countries, health systems remain operational and focused on preparedness, with national authorities activating emergency plans, strengthening monitoring for environmental and radiological risks, and working with WHO on readiness.

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