ISLAMABAD: The United Nations refugee agency has reported that millions of people in Iran have been forced to leave their homes due to the ongoing conflict involving the United States and Israel.
According to preliminary estimates by United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), between 600,000 and one million Iranian households have been temporarily displaced within the country. This translates to as many as 3.2 million individuals, with the number expected to increase as the bombing campaign continues.
Ayaki Ito, UNHCR’s Director of Emergency and Programme Support and Cross-Regional Refugee Response Coordinator for the Middle East Emergency, described the situation as a rapidly worsening humanitarian crisis.
Reports indicate that many families are leaving Tehran and other large cities, heading towards northern regions and rural areas in search of safety.
The displacement is also affecting Afghan refugee families living in Iran, who face greater risks because of their already fragile living conditions and limited support systems. Many are fleeing conflict-hit areas amid growing insecurity and restricted access to basic services.
UNHCR, which has maintained a long-standing presence in Iran through reception centres, helplines and other support programmes, is adjusting its operations to address the increasing needs. The agency is coordinating with national authorities and partners to monitor the situation and strengthen emergency preparedness as population movements continue.
The UN agency also called for the protection of civilians, uninterrupted humanitarian access, and the keeping of borders open for people seeking safety in accordance with international obligations.