Geneva, 28 February 2026 – The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) is following closely and is deeply concerned about the recent escalation of hostilities in the Middle East. Local teams are on the ground and responding as needs arise. 

The IFRC is working with the affected National Societies to support a timely humanitarian response as needs rise. The IFRC has activated every level, from global to regional and local, to ensure coordination and readiness to respond, including IFRC’s logistics pipeline and prepositioning of humanitarian goods.  

In Iran, Iranian Red Crescent Society (IRCS) has mobilized its network of volunteers, with logistics units, medical services, rapid response teams, search and rescue and pharmacies across the country to deliver essential humanitarian services and support people affected by the emergency. This includes deploying response teams following an attack on a school in Minab, Hormozgan province. 

In Israel, Magen David Adom (MDA) has mobilized staff and volunteers across the country. Teams are treating and evacuating affected people to hospitals and conducting transfer operations to safeguard patients in non‑sheltered facilities. Blood drives are underway at secure locations across the country to ensure full operational preparedness for all scenarios. 

All National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies in the region are on high alert for any possible responses needed. 

The IFRC calls for the preservation of humanitarian space so humanitarian and medical personnel can operate safely and reach people in need. 

For more information: [email protected] 

In Geneva: Irina Ruano, +41 79 357 1609 
       Tommaso Della Longa, +41 79 708 4367