What is the impact of the Iran war on aid deliveries?

The ongoing conflict involving Iran is affecting how emergency medical aid is delivered across parts of the Middle East and beyond, according to the World Health Organization.

Supply routes that once relied on direct air, sea, and land transport from regional hubs have been disrupted, forcing humanitarian agencies to find alternative ways to move critical supplies.

Previously, shipments from the UAE-based logistics hub were temporarily halted as transport routes were restricted. To adapt, aid organizations are now relying more on longer overland routes and additional flights to reach affected areas. These changes are increasing both delivery times and operational costs.

WHO officials say these workarounds are already creating delays and higher expenses, while other humanitarian groups report rising transportation costs and border-related slowdowns. Some shipping companies have stepped in by waiving certain additional fees, but broader logistical challenges remain.

Experts warn that if disruptions continue, rising fuel costs could become a major concern, particularly for countries with limited resources.

While immediate shortages of medical supplies have not yet been widely reported, officials caution that prolonged disruptions could begin to affect availability in the coming weeks.