ICN convenes nursing leaders across the Middle East as conflict deepens

The International Council of Nurses (ICN) has convened national nursing associations from across the Middle East and Gulf region as nurses continue to work under mounting pressure caused by escalating conflict, displacement and disruption to health services.

In a meeting held to hear directly from nursing leaders in the region, participants described the fear and uncertainty facing both nurses and the communities they serve, while also underlining nurses’ continued commitment to caring for patients, sustaining services and supporting one another.

ICN Board Member for the Eastern Mediterranean Region, Dr Myrna Abi Abdallah Doumit, said the discussion reflected both the gravity of the situation and the strength of nurses across the region.

“Nurses in our region are facing extremely difficult and uncertain circumstances, yet they continue to serve their communities with courage and dedication,” she said. “Even when systems are under pressure and people are living with fear and instability, nurses remain committed to caring for patients and supporting one another. It is essential that the global nursing community continues to stand with them and to advocate for the protection of health workers and health services.”

Nursing leaders highlighted the impact of the crisis on mental health and wellbeing, disruption to access to care for patients with chronic and long-term conditions, and the strain on health services as communities face displacement and insecurity.

ICN Chief Executive Officer Howard Catton said the meeting underlined both the resilience of nurses in the region and the importance of international solidarity and accountability.

“Nurses everywhere remain unwavering in their commitment to care for patients and communities, even in the most challenging circumstances,” he said. “But nurses should never have to deliver care under threat. International humanitarian law is clear: health workers, patients, health facilities and civilians must be protected at all times.

‘For several years ICN has raised concerns about attacks on health workers and health facilities, and our fear is that without decisive action these violations may be becoming normalized. Respecting international humanitarian law must mean more than statements of principle. It requires that attacks on health care are properly investigated, that the law is enforced, and that those responsible are held accountable.

‘At times like this it is vital that nurses know they are not alone. Across the world, the nursing community stands with them in solidarity and support.”

ICN will continue to remain in close contact with nursing leaders across the region and explore how its #NursesforPeace initiative can support nurses affected by the crisis, including through advocacy, visibility and practical support where possible.

As part of this effort, ICN is encouraging nurses and organizations around the world to share messages of solidarity through the “I’m a global nurse and I support #NursesforPeace” photo initiative. These messages are being shared with nurses across the region as a sign of international support.

ICN will continue to advocate for the protection of health workers, patients and health facilities, and to support nurses working on the front lines of care in the Middle East and around the world.