WHO: Over 900 Attacks on Hospitals Recorded in 2026, Thousands Killed

In 2026, the World Health Organization (WHO) documented a staggering 914 attacks targeting medical facilities and personnel worldwide. These assaults resulted in the deaths of at least 911 individuals and left 1,486 people injured, equating to more than four attacks every single day.

Altaf Musani, the WHO's Director of Health Emergencies and Humanitarian Operations, highlighted the escalating crisis, noting that over 10,400 attacks on healthcare objects have been recorded since 2018. These incidents have claimed the lives of around 5,700 people and injured an additional 8,500.

The regions most severely impacted by attacks on their health systems in 2026 were Ukraine, Lebanon, and the occupied Palestinian territory. However, such attacks were also registered in Myanmar, Iran, Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, South Sudan, the Russian Federation, Syria, and Nigeria.

The WHO continues to monitor attacks on healthcare facilities amidst ongoing conflicts, particularly in the Middle East, including Lebanon, Israel, and Iran. Heavy weaponry strikes were identified as the most prevalent form of attack in 2026. The organization emphasized that attacks on hospitals have far-reaching consequences, disrupting patient care, leading to job losses for medical staff, and halting the supply of essential medicines.

Regarding accountability, Musani stressed the WHO's limitations. "Unfortunately, out of more than 10,000 confirmed attacks, not one has yet led to a perpetrator accountability procedure," he stated, underscoring the lack of mandate and authority to bring those responsible to justice.