THE WFPHA Statement Condemning the Bombing in Iran and the Middle East
News
Mar 3, 2026
The World Federation of Public Health Associations (WFPHA) strongly condemns the recent actions by Israel and the United States of America, which initiated an act of war that was without any justification under international law, is contrary to the UN Charter, and has led to the widespread loss of life in Iran and the Middle East.
The WFPHA unequivocally rejects all acts of war and political violence. This comes alongside a strain of work in peace and health, such as the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons, as well as Palestine and Venezuela more recently. Bombing as a tool of foreign policy and regime change places civilians – families, children, healthcare workers, and entire communities – directly in harm’s way, undermining the most fundamental public health principles and human rights.
Public safety is the number one public health issue of our time. Yet military actions like these do not increase public safety. They do not protect populations from harm; they expand the scope of suffering, endanger health systems, increase displacement, and worsen long-term physical and mental health outcomes for millions. Violence and war disrupt vital services, destroy infrastructure, and set back progress on health, equity, and security for entire populations.
We reaffirm that safety is inseparable from peace. Sustainable public safety and the health of individuals and communities cannot be secured through bombing campaigns, targeted killings, or escalation of conflict. Evidence and history alike show that militarized approaches to conflict often entrench cycles of violence and instability rather than resolve underlying causes.
The WFPHA stands in solidarity with all people affected by this crisis and urgently calls on:
- Immediate de-escalation of military operations and cessation of all hostilities.
- A shift toward peaceful diplomacy, conflict resolution, and dialogue grounded in international law and human rights.
- Protection of all civilians and civilian infrastructure in accordance with international humanitarian law.
- Global leadership focused on public health, human security, and the prevention of violence, not its expansion.
We recognize that war is a leading threat to life and population safety on the planet, rivaling climate change, pandemics, and environmental degradation as global health emergencies. The loss of life in Iran, whether civilian or political, is a human tragedy. It must serve as a stark reminder that violence is never a path to health, justice, or well-being.
Public health demands peace. Public safety demands peace. Humanity demands peace.