The World Health Organization (WHO) has released US$800,000 from its Contingency Fund for Emergencies (CFE) to support the health response in Iran over a three-month period, as the health system continues to face significant strain following weeks of hostilities.

“The release of WHO CFE funds for Iran coincides with a much-needed ceasefire after weeks of intense pressure. But the public health crisis is far from over. Humanitarian and health needs remain extremely high, and many people are still struggling to access even basic care,” said Dr Hanan Balkhy, Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean. “This funding will support WHO’s immediate priorities in Iran, focused on sustaining essential health services, restoring the functionality of critical health infrastructure, and ensuring continuity of life-saving care. It will also strengthen readiness to respond to possible further escalation.”

Over the three-month CFE allocation period, WHO’s priorities in Iran will focus on sustaining essential health services in conflict-affected areas. This includes restoring functionality of critical health facilities through the provision of generators, power stabilization systems and essential medical equipment, and pre-positioning life-saving medical supplies, including trauma care and treatments for non communicable diseases. The allocation will also support strengthening mental health and psychosocial support for health workers, and enabling the deployment and coordination of emergency medical teams to reinforce surge capacity where needed.