Responding to Escalating Humanitarian Needs Across Middle East
Project HOPE, the global health and humanitarian aid organization, is actively responding to the widespread humanitarian emergency following hostilities that have resulted in significant civilian casualties and widespread displacement across Iran, Lebanon, and the Middle East region. Project HOPE teams are on the ground in multiple impacted countries, delivering critical medical and relief aid to affected populations.
In Iran, Project HOPE has conducted preliminary health assessments in Ahvaz and surrounding areas, revealing a sharp increase in respiratory illnesses and asthma due to bombings of oil refineries. Shortages of medicines for chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension, as well as vaccinations and medical supplies, are exacerbating the crisis in already resource-strained communities impacted by sanctions. The organization is monitoring the situation closely, coordinating with local partners to assess civilian medical needs, and identifying supply chain routes for humanitarian deliveries.
In Lebanon, Project HOPE is providing immediate assistance across all governorates, distributing drinking water, hygiene kits, bedding, and essential items to shelters in Saida, Beirut, and Mount Lebanon. Two Emergency Health Pallets containing essential medications are en route to support health facilities facing shortages. Additionally, Project HOPE is activating two mobile Primary Health Care Support Units (PSUs) in the North and Beirut/Mount Lebanon to deliver basic primary care, including psychosocial support, triage, and referrals in shelters and displacement sites, with plans to expand as needs grow. The team is also assessing how best to support Syrian returnees moving through the Lebanon-Syria border.
In Iraq, Project HOPE has deployed personnel and is building supply chains for medical and humanitarian supplies while coordinating with local partners to prepare for potential escalation, including monitoring the Iran border for rapid response capabilities.
In Gaza, despite highly restrained aid crossings that limit the movement of personnel and supplies, Project HOPE has continued operating its seven health clinics, conducting water distributions, and supporting surge staffing for surgical and trauma experts.
“Project HOPE remains deeply concerned for the safety and well-being of civilians across the region, particularly in Lebanon where over 700,000 people are now displaced from their homes amid airstrikes and ground operations in the south and in Beirut,” stated Arlan Fuller, Project HOPE’s Director of Emergency Preparedness and Response. “Our teams are working tirelessly to deliver life-saving health and humanitarian assistance in this complex, active conflict setting, coordinating closely with local partners to ensure we reach those that need it most.”
Project HOPE is continuing to act in coordination with partners across the Middle East, while remaining committed to the humanitarian principles of humanity, neutrality, impartiality, and independence. For more information or to schedule an interview, please contact: media@ProjectHOPE.org
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