Nuclear War Fears: WHO Preparing for Nuclear-Related Catastrophe if US-Israel vs Iran War Escalates Further
New York, March 19: The World Health Organisation (WHO) is actively preparing for the possibility of a nuclear-related incident in the Middle East as regional tensions reach unprecedented levels. In a statement reported by Politico, Dr. Hanan Balkhy, the WHO Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean, confirmed that the organisation is updating its emergency protocols and conducting staff training to manage radiological risks.
The WHO’s state of heightened readiness covers a broad spectrum of risks, ranging from accidental damage to nuclear power plants to the catastrophic use of nuclear weapons. Dr. Balkhy emphasised that while the current likelihood of a major radiological release is assessed as low by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the public health consequences of any compromise to nuclear safety would be "significant" and could affect the region for decades. The organisation is currently focusing on pre-positioning medical supplies, such as potassium iodide and trauma kits, while coordinating with national health ministries to ensure surveillance systems remain functional. ‘Thousands of Targets Ahead’: Israel Defence Forces Prepares for 3 More Weeks of Operations to Degrade Iran’s ‘Military Industry’.
The primary concern for global health officials stems from ongoing military operations, including "Operation Epic Fury," which have targeted various industrial and military sites across Iran. Reports from earlier this month indicated damage to auxiliary buildings at the Natanz enrichment site and strikes in proximity to the Bushehr nuclear power plant.
While the IAEA has so far confirmed that no increase in radiation levels has been detected, the WHO is not taking any chances. "Staff are ready for a nuclear incident, including an attack on a nuclear facility or the use of weapons," Dr. Balkhy stated. The organisation is currently conducting specialised training for first responders on decontaminating patients and managing acute radiation syndrome (ARS). ‘Would Take 10 Years to Rebuild’: Donald Trump Says US-Israel Military Operation on Iran ‘Proceeding Very Well’.
The push for nuclear preparedness comes at a time when the Middle East’s health systems are already reeling from conventional conflict. According to the WHO, over 1,200 deaths have been reported in Iran alone since the escalation began in late February. The violence has forced the closure of dozens of primary health centers in Lebanon and Iran, and at least 13 attacks on healthcare facilities have been verified by the UN body.
Operations at the WHO’s global logistics hub in Dubai are currently on hold due to regional insecurity and airspace closures. This disruption has blocked nearly $26 million in essential medical supplies, further complicating the organisation’s ability to respond to both current trauma needs and potential future radiological emergencies.
Long-Term Public Health Implications
A nuclear incident in the densely populated regions of the Middle East would present a public health challenge unlike any seen in modern history. The WHO has outlined potential immediate risks, such as acute lung and skin injuries from thermal radiation, alongside long-term impacts like increased cancer rates and widespread psychological trauma.
To mitigate these risks, the WHO is working on updated recommendations for:
- Risk Assessment: Rapidly identifying affected zones and atmospheric dispersion of particles.
- Protective Measures: Guidelines for sheltering-in-place and evacuation procedures for civilians.
- Public Communication: Combating misinformation to prevent mass panic during an event.
The shift in WHO's posture reflects the reality of the "Shadow War" moving into the forefront of international politics. For years, nuclear facilities were considered "red lines" that neither side would cross. However, the assassination of high-ranking Iranian officials and subsequent retaliatory missile barrages across the Gulf have fundamentally altered the regional security architecture.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Mar 19, 2026 07:18 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).