The World Health Organisation (WHO) says 438 attacks on healthcare facilities, workers, patients and medical transport have been recorded in the Eastern Mediterranean Region in 2026, resulting in more than 1,120 injuries.
Dr Annette Heinzelmann, Director of the WHO Health Emergencies Programme at the Eastern Mediterranean Regional Office, disclosed this during a WHO webinar on Thursday. She said the attacks occurred at an average rate of one every 12 hours, with the region accounting for nearly half of attacks recorded globally and more than 80 per cent of associated deaths.
Heinzelmann said the attacks had affected healthcare workers, patients, ambulances and health facilities, with the consequences extending beyond the immediate incidents. According to her, damaged facilities, injured or killed health workers, unsafe ambulance movements and interruptions to essential services could leave communities without adequate healthcare for prolonged periods.
She said the disruption was particularly damaging in areas affected by armed conflict, displacement and limited health resources, where health systems were already under pressure. The attacks could reduce the ability of health facilities to provide treatment, respond to emergencies and support recovery, she added.
The WHO official stressed that international humanitarian law protects healthcare workers, patients, medical facilities and transport. She called for stronger prevention, preparedness, accountability and political commitment, alongside practical measures before, during and after attacks, to ensure that healthcare services remain available and protected during conflicts and humanitarian emergencies.
