Three of the world's foremost health organizations, namely the World Health Organization, the International Committee of the Red Cross, and Doctors Without Borders, have issued a stark warning regarding the worsening healthcare situation in conflict zones. These organizations confirmed that the targeting of healthcare facilities and medical personnel has not only persisted but has intensified in recent years.
In a joint statement released on Sunday, these organizations urged world leaders to "take action" to protect patients and medical staff. They noted a significant increase in attacks on healthcare facilities and medical transport, threatening the lives of many individuals in conflict areas.
Details of the Statement
The statement was issued to mark the tenth anniversary of the adoption of UN Security Council Resolution 2286, which aims to protect medical personnel in armed conflicts. This statement was jointly prepared by the International Committee of the Red Cross, Doctors Without Borders, and the World Health Organization.
However, instead of a decline in attacks, data reveals a continuous upward trend. According to the World Health Organization, there were 1,348 recorded attacks on medical facilities in 2025, resulting in over 1,900 fatalities. These attacks include assaults on hospitals, ambulances, and medical teams.
Background & Context
Doctors Without Borders reported 255 security incidents related to medical activities, including 107 attacks on medical facilities and 75 assaults on ambulances. This increase began in 2016 but became more pronounced and severe in 2024 and 2025, with indications of its continuation into 2026.
These incidents span 28 countries, including Haiti, Sudan, Yemen, the Central African Republic, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The attacks on medical facilities are particularly concentrated in Sudan, Yemen, Haiti, the occupied Palestinian territories, and South Sudan, raising questions about the effectiveness of international laws in protecting the health sector.
Impact & Consequences
Despite the existence of a clear legal framework, the reality indicates a lack of genuine accountability. Resolution 2286, adopted in May 2016, stipulates the protection of medical facilities, patients, and healthcare workers, condemning attacks against them. It also calls on parties to the conflict to respect international humanitarian law and human rights.
Nevertheless, attacks are increasing in the absence of actual accountability, leading to a normalization of the targeting of the health sector. This is primarily due to ongoing impunity, lack of deterrence, and ineffective enforcement of international obligations.
Regional Significance
The primary responsibility lies with states and parties to the conflict, as most of these attacks are attributed to them and some armed groups. On the ground, health organizations like Doctors Without Borders are attempting to mitigate risks through practical measures, such as operating in underground facilities and avoiding areas most exposed to bombardment.
However, these measures remain temporary and do not address the root of the problem. A genuine solution requires states to commit to their international obligations, conduct independent investigations, and hold accountable those responsible.
In conclusion, the targeting of medical facilities not only constitutes a violation of the law but also reflects a serious deterioration in humanitarian values, as these facilities are supposed to be places for saving lives.