Middle East Emergency Appeal Launched Amid Urgent Medical Needs

Since the U.S. and Israel launched airstrikes on Iran, violence has spread across the region. More than 1,300 people have been reportedly killed across ten countries, and many more have been injured. 

Doctors of the World UK has launched a Middle East emergency appeal to provide essential medical care to people affected by the outbreak of violence in the region. 

In Lebanon, airstrikes have forced thousands of people into temporary shelters, stretching humanitarian services to their limits. In response to the mass displacement of civilians, we are deploying mobile medical teams to deliver urgent care directly to affected communities. 
 
In Gaza, rising militarisation is preventing aid from reaching people in need. People already on the brink of survival are cut off from medicine, food and clean water. Despite the dangers, our local staff continue to deliver healthcare through seven clinics in Gaza while providing ongoing support in the West Bank.

Across Armenia, Syria, Iraq and Türkiye, we are monitoring border areas to support displaced people, who are increasingly at risk of illness, injury and pyschological challenges. 

We continue to assess how best to support Iranian civilians both inside Iran and in neighbouring countries.

Doctors of the World UK stresses that all parties to the conflict have a responsibility under international humanitarian law to protect civilians. 
 
Together with the directors of 14 international NGOs, we are calling for: 

• The immediate cessation of hostilities and the use of explosive weapons in populated areas; 

• Comprehensive protection of civilians, humanitarian workers, and critical civilian infrastructure, including hospitals, schools, and water systems; 

• Absolute respect for international humanitarian law by all parties involved; 

• A firm commitment to political solutions that halt the escalation of the conflict. 

As the war devastates communities, many of which have already endured years of violence and displacement, the need for humanitarian support is urgent.

The Middle East emergency appeal supports our doctors and nurses reach people in need and provide lifesaving healthcare across the region. If you can, please donate here.