米・イスラエルの攻撃後、爆発で立ち上がる煙。３月１日、イラン・テヘランで撮影（２０２６年 ロイター/Majid Asgaripour/West Asia News Agency via REUTERS)
The World Health Organization has warned that recent strikes on oil facilities in Iran may pose health risks to the population. The situation comes amid escalating tensions in the region, with ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran.
On March 10, the WHO cautioned that “black rain” resulting from the attacks, along with the release of toxic substances into the atmosphere, could cause respiratory problems. The organization voiced support for the Iranian government’s advice urging citizens to remain indoors.
The Iranian capital, Tehran, was blanketed in black smoke on March 9 as part of a series of military operations by the United States and Israel targeting energy infrastructure within the country. According to the WHO, multiple reports have surfaced this week detailing rainfall containing oil-based black residue.
“Large amounts of toxic hydrocarbons, sulfur oxides, and nitrogen compounds have been released into the atmosphere,” a WHO spokesperson stated during a press conference in Geneva. “Black rain and the resulting acid rain are particularly dangerous for the respiratory system.”
When asked whether the WHO supported the indoor advisory issued by Iranian authorities, the spokesperson responded, “Given the danger that oil storage facilities and refineries have been damaged, causing fires and creating severe air pollution problems, staying indoors is definitely a good idea.”
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