The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has reported that up to 3.2 million people have been displaced within Iran since the outbreak of the Middle East war.
“Preliminary assessments indicate that between 600,000 and one million Iranian households are temporarily displaced due to the ongoing conflict,” said Ayaki Ito, head of UNHCR’s emergency support team and coordinator for the Middle East refugee response.
He cautioned that the figure is likely to rise as hostilities continue, signaling a worsening humanitarian crisis.
The conflict, which began with airstrikes by the United States and Israel on 28 February, has seen retaliatory attacks by Iran on multiple Gulf countries, triggering mass population movements.
Ito explained that the majority of displaced individuals are reportedly fleeing Tehran and other major cities, moving northwards and into rural areas in search of safety.
Refugee families already residing in Iran, mostly Afghans, have also been severely affected, he added, noting that their precarious status and limited support networks make them particularly vulnerable.
“Families are leaving affected areas amid growing insecurity and restricted access to essential services,” Ito said.
UNHCR, which has maintained a longstanding presence in Iran, confirmed that it is adapting its operations to meet escalating needs, working closely with national authorities and partners to assess requirements and strengthen preparedness as population movements increase.
Ito emphasized the urgent need to protect civilians, maintain humanitarian access, and ensure that borders remain open to those seeking safety, in accordance with international obligations.
“This situation marks a worrying escalation in humanitarian needs, and immediate action is required to safeguard vulnerable populations,” he said.
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