UN specialists have raised alarms regarding the immediate consequences of the war in Iran on essential resources like drinking water and air quality. They highlight that military operations have targeted critical infrastructure, resulting in the release of harmful contaminants including fuels, heavy metals, and PFAS, commonly referred to as 'forever chemicals'. These toxins pose significant health risks to both local populations and the broader environment.

In the wake of the initial days of conflict, experts identified key environmental targets that have sustained damage from military actions. The foremost concern is the military infrastructure, which, when attacked, releases a variety of pollutants into the atmosphere and surrounding areas. This can have far-reaching effects, contributing to long-term ecological damage as well as immediate risks to human health from the pollutants.

Moreover, the war has led to incidents of marine pollution due to attacks on oil tankers and port infrastructure along ecologically significant coastlines. Fires at Iranian oil depots have also contributed to air pollution, spewing thick clouds of harmful substances such as nitrogen oxides, sulfur compounds, and toxic organic pollutants into the air. The compounded effect of these events underscores the urgent need for environmental agencies to assess and mitigate the damage caused by the conflict, as the health implications could extend globally, affecting climate and public health beyond Iran's borders.