Reported by Afilawos Magana Sur, Managing Editor | Journalist at Sele Media Africa

The expanding military confrontation involving the United States, Israel, and Iran has triggered a rapidly escalating humanitarian crisis across the Middle East, with casualty figures continuing to rise as fighting spreads beyond Iran’s borders. Since the coordinated US and Israeli strikes on Iranian targets in late February 2026, retaliatory attacks and proxy confrontations have affected several countries in the region, including Israel, Lebanon, and Gulf states hosting Western military bases. Humanitarian agencies and governments warn that the full human cost of the conflict may still be unfolding. Iran records the highest casualties Iran has borne the brunt of the conflict, with the majority of fatalities reported within its borders. Iranian authorities and humanitarian monitors say more than 1,200 people have been killed and over 12,000 injured following sustained airstrikes targeting military installations, infrastructure, and suspected strategic facilities across multiple cities. Al Jazeera +1 Independent rights groups have suggested that the overall death toll could be even higher, with estimates exceeding 1,700 fatalities, including large numbers of civilians and children. Vanguard News reports from Tehran indicate widespread damage, disruptions to electricity supplies, and growing strain on hospitals as casualties mount. Israel reports civilian deaths and injuries Israel has also experienced casualties following waves of Iranian missile and drone attacks targeting cities and military installations. Authorities report around 13 to 14 deaths and hundreds of injuries since the escalation began. Al Jazeera +1 Emergency responders have been dealing with repeated strikes on urban areas, with air defense systems intercepting many incoming missiles but not all. Lebanon drawn into the conflict the conflict has expanded to Lebanon, where Israel has intensified airstrikes against positions linked to Hezbollah following cross-border attacks. Lebanese health officials report approximately 486 deaths and more than 1,300 injuries, including dozens of children. Reuters +1 The United Nations says the violence has displaced over 600,000 people, creating a rapidly deteriorating humanitarian situation and placing enormous pressure on hospitals and relief agencies. Reuters casualties in Gulf States and U.S. Forces the conflict has also affected several Gulf states hosting Western military facilities or critical energy infrastructure. Reported casualties include:United Arab Emirates: at least 3 deathsBahrain: 1 deathOman: 1 death Kuwait and Iraq: several fatalities and injuries reported United States: at least 6–7 military personnel killed in attacks on regional bases Tribune Online +1While some of these incidents stem from missile strikes or drone attacks linked to Iran and allied groups, others are the result of accidents or interception debris during defensive operations. A region facing widening instability security analysts warn that the conflict risks spiraling into a broader regional war involving multiple actors and proxy forces. The ongoing strikes have already affected key maritime routes, regional aviation, and global energy markets. International organizations, including the United Nations and the World Health Organization, have urged all parties to exercise restraint and prioritize civilian protection as the humanitarian toll continues to grow. With hostilities still ongoing, casualty figures across the Middle East remain fluid, and analysts expect them to rise as new attacks and retaliatory operations unfold. Sources: Al Jazeera, Reuters, The Guardian, Fortune, Vanguard, Tribune Online, The Washington Post, Modern Diplomacy.

Afilawos Magana Sur

Afilawos Magana Sur is a journalist from Bogoro Local Government Area of Bauchi State, currently based in Bauchi metropolis. He is known for his commitment to accurate, ethical, and responsible journalism, with a focus on reporting issues of public relevance and community development.

www.selemedia.org