100,000 flee Tehran in first 48 hours of US-Israeli strikes, UN reports

Approximately 100,000 residents fled the Iranian capital Tehran within the first 48 hours of US-Israeli military strikes, the UN refugee agency reported Wednesday, revealing a significant internal displacement crisis triggered by the escalating conflict. A situation report from UNHCR detailed the exodus, with road police recording between 1,000 and 2,000 vehicles departing the city daily, primarily heading toward northern provinces.

Border crossings stable

While internal displacement has surged dramatically, the report indicated that cross-border movements remain stable for now. The Islam Qala border crossing with Afghanistan shows "no significant changes," according to UNHCR, while the Milak crossing reopened Monday after possible earlier disruption. The stability at international borders suggests displaced Iranians are seeking safety within the country rather than fleeing abroad.

Regional humanitarian deterioration

The report painted a grim picture of the broader humanitarian landscape, stating that "the recent escalation of hostilities across Asia and the Middle East has led to a marked deterioration in the humanitarian situation." The affected areas already host 24.6 million forcibly displaced people, "many of whom already face significant protection risks and humanitarian needs, alongside host communities." Current data shows 275,400 people are now internally displaced across conflict zones, while host communities in Afghanistan, Iran and Lebanon face acute protection risks.

Conflict expands

The exodus from Tehran comes as US-Israeli strikes, which began Saturday, have killed at least 926 people including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and dozens of senior commanders. Iran has retaliated with drone and missile strikes targeting Israel and Gulf countries hosting US assets, while the conflict has expanded to include Hezbollah engagements in Lebanon and Iranian attacks on Gulf states. The humanitarian toll continues to mount as civilians flee urban centers and seek safety from the widening war.