Iran has urged the World Health Organization to act after repeated strikes on its medical infrastructure. Consequently, the Iranian Red Crescent Society emphasized the urgent need to protect and rebuild hospitals and emergency centers. Pir-Hossein Kolivand, head of the Iranian Red Crescent Society, wrote to WHO Director General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. In his letter, he expressed grave concern over the attacks on Iran’s medical infrastructure and called for swift international action.
Since February 28, a U.S.-Israeli military coalition has targeted hospitals, medical centers, and pharmacies across Iran. As a result, Kolivand reported that 292 facilities, including IRCS branches, suffered damage or destruction. The strikes killed at least 22 medical staff and injured 113 others. Moreover, 48 ambulances and rescue vehicles were damaged or destroyed. Hospitals in Tehran affected include Gandhi, Motahhari, Yas, Arman, Seyedalshohada, Khatam, Roozbeh, Arash, Taleqani, Razi, and Al Zahra.
Currently, 13 hospitals in Tehran remain fully operational, five partially operate, and 13 are out of service. In addition, seven hospitals have been evacuated. The attacks also destroyed 17 emergency relief centers and heavily damaged the IRCS rehabilitation center. Kolivand described these strikes as violations of international humanitarian law, citing the four Geneva Conventions. Therefore, he urged the WHO to condemn the attacks and provide support for medical staff protection.
The Iranian Medical Council also requested that the WHO expel the U.S. and Israel from international health organizations. Kolivand warned that ignoring the attacks could endanger civilians and undermine compliance with humanitarian law. Experts note that targeting medical infrastructure disrupts health systems and slows emergency responses. Nevertheless, Iran has avoided striking U.S. and Israeli medical facilities, demonstrating restraint and adherence to international norms.
The Red Crescent pledged to provide the WHO with evidence documenting the damage. Consequently, officials stressed that rebuilding the medical infrastructure and safeguarding staff remain urgent priorities. Overall, the crisis highlights global concerns over civilian protection during conflicts. Observers urge swift action to prevent further damage and ensure hospitals continue operating.