28th February 2026
Refugees and migrants amid escalation between the US and Iran: how conflict in the UAE could lead to a new humanitarian crisis
Escalation between the US and Iran and strikes in the region
Following the recent hours of military escalation between the US and Iran and reports of strikes on US military bases in the United Arab Emirates, the region is once again in a state of high tension.
Such actions do not remain isolated to military targets. History shows that when a conflict escalates, the consequences affect the civilian population, either directly or indirectly.
With every such crisis, the question arises:
Will this escalation lead to a new wave of refugees?
How military strikes can create a refugee flow
Even when strikes are directed at military infrastructure, the effect on society can be significant:
- fear of the expansion of hostilities;
- disruption of transport and logistics;
- economic instability;
- closure of borders or restrictions on movement;
- secondary retaliatory actions.
In the event of a wider regional escalation, the following may occur:
- internal displacement;
- foreign workers and families leaving the country;
- refugee flows to neighboring countries;
- migration pressure towards Europe.
The Persian Gulf region is home to millions of migrants and workers from different countries. In the event of a prolonged conflict, these groups are among the most vulnerable.
Who are the people most at risk in such an escalation?
In times of military instability, the following are the first to feel the consequences:
- families with young children;
- low-paid migrants;
- people without stable legal status;
- workers dependent on employer visas;
- people with chronic illnesses.
If the conflict escalates, they may be left without:
- income;
- housing;
- access to health services;
- the ability to move around safely.
What type of humanitarian assistance may be needed
If the situation worsens, the need for support may include:
- temporary shelter;
- evacuation logistics;
- food and water;
- medical assistance;
- legal support for migrants;
- psychological assistance;
- support for children and families.
In rapidly developing crises, it is often civil initiatives and online campaigns that respond more quickly than institutional mechanisms.
Why it is important to talk about refugees at the very beginning of a conflict
Humanitarian response usually starts late—when there is already mass displacement.
But early preparation and awareness reduce the risk of:
- uncontrolled migration;
- overburdening of border countries;
- social tension;
- lack of coordination.
Talking about refugees and migrants does not mean panic.
It means prevention and preparedness.
How an online fundraising campaign can help in the event of a refugee wave
If the escalation leads to displacement, online fundraising can be directed towards:
- a specific group of affected families;
- support for temporary accommodation centers;
- medical expenses;
- evacuation and transportation;
- educational support for children;
- integration programs.
It is essential that the campaign be:
- specific;
- transparent;
- clearly structured;
- free of political rhetoric.
The focus should be on people, not geopolitics.
The balance between security and humanitarian responsibility
The refugee issue often becomes a political debate.
But when we talk about people leaving their homes because of military insecurity, the issue is primarily humanitarian.
Supporting refugees and migrants does not mean taking sides in a conflict.
It means supporting human dignity.
Conclusion: crises develop quickly – the response must be prepared
The escalation between the US and Iran and reports of strikes in the region show how quickly the geopolitical situation can change.
Whether the conflict will escalate or be contained remains to be seen.
But if it leads to displacement and a humanitarian crisis, support will be needed immediately.
👉 Launch a campaign to support refugees and migrants if you want to respond in a timely and organized manner to any humanitarian needs.
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