NEW YORK – Between 600,000 and 1 million Iranian households – or up to 3.2 million people – have been temporarily displaced within Iran due to the ongoing conflict, according to preliminary UNHCR assessments, said Ayaki Ito, Director of Emergency and Programme Support and Cross-Regional Refugee Response Coordinator for the Middle East Emergency.
“Most are fleeing Tehran and other major urban areas towards northern regions and rural areas to seek safety. This figure is likely to continue rising as hostilities persist, marking a worrying escalation in humanitarian needs,” Ito said in a news release published on UNHCR’s official website.
The UN official added that refugee families, mostly Afghans, residing in the country are particularly vulnerable, given their already precarious situation and limited support networks. Families are leaving affected areas amid rising insecurity and limited access to essential services.
Ito noted that UNHCR is adapting its response to meet growing needs, working closely with national authorities and partners. Efforts include operational reception areas, helplines, and ongoing support services to enhance preparedness as population movements continue.