Mar 10 • 23:43 UTC 🇧🇷 Brazil G1 (PT)

WHO warns of dangers from attacks on oil refineries in the Middle East

The WHO has issued a warning regarding the health risks posed by escalating attacks on oil refineries in the Middle East amid ongoing military actions.

On the evening of Tuesday, the 10th, the United States announced the destruction of Iranian ships in the Strait of Hormuz, which were carrying explosive mines intended to disrupt oil trade in the region. The Pentagon reported that this day marked the heaviest bombing in eleven days of warfare. Reports from the area include harrowing accounts of destruction, with civilians caught in the crossfire suffering tremendous losses. The situation is further exacerbated by the widespread impact of attacks on vital infrastructures such as oil refineries, which could lead to severe environmental and health consequences.

U.S. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth indicated that the day would witness the most intense airstrikes, and in Tehran, rescue teams were working amidst the rubble to help survivors. The Iranian ambassador to the UN has reported that at least 1,300 civilians have died since the beginning of the U.S. and Israeli strikes on February 28. The toll on civilian life is becoming increasingly dire as the conflict escalates, raising alarms over humanitarian conditions in affected areas.

The World Health Organization has highlighted rising health risks, including contaminated water supplies resulting from the bombings. A video captured by a WHO employee showed efforts to clean black water at a facility affected by airstrikes. These dire environmental conditions signal a potential public health crisis, with acid rain and toxic clouds posing significant dangers to the local population. The ongoing violence and its implications on health and safety underscore the urgent need for international attention and intervention in the conflict.

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