The UN refugee agency UNHCR says that up to 3.2 million Iranians have been temporarily displaced inside the country because of the ongoing conflict. Preliminary assessments indicate that between 600 000 and one million households are affected, the organisation announced on Thursday. Most of those fleeing left Tehran and other major cities, moving north and into rural areas in search of safety.
UNHCR also warned that refugee families already hosted in Iran, especially Afghans, are affected. They are at particular risk because they already live in precarious circumstances with limited support networks. These families are leaving the impacted areas due to increasing insecurity and limited access to basic services.
To address the growing needs, UNHCR has adjusted its operations in the country. Working with national authorities and partners, it is assessing the emerging demand and strengthening preparedness in the face of rising population movements.