
By Sama Marwan,
Dr. Hanan Balkhy, Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean at the World Health Organization (WHO), stated during a press conference held via video today that the United States’ withdrawal from the WHO has had a major impact. She explained that the U.S. played a crucial role in supporting polio eradication programs in the Eastern Mediterranean region. The organization is working to eliminate polio in Afghanistan and Pakistan, and without WHO’s intervention, polio would have spread in Gaza.
She added that the U.S. also played a role in monitoring infectious diseases and maintaining healthcare services. The departure of the U.S. highlights the need for global cooperation. WHO is ready to evaluate itself, accept feedback from all member states regarding its operations and service quality, and work with member countries to ensure no one is left behind in accessing healthcare services.
Dr. Ahmed Zouiten, Regional Emergency Program Director at WHO’s Eastern Mediterranean Office, emphasized that achieving a sustainable healthcare system requires peace, which may take years in Gaza. He urged the U.S. to reconsider its decision to withdraw from WHO so that countries in need can continue to receive healthcare support.
Dr. Christina Bethke, Acting WHO Representative in Syria, stressed WHO’s commitment to supporting women and children and maintaining healthcare services. She noted that 102 health facilities are at immediate risk of closure, which affects service availability. Energy shortages and power outages further complicate service delivery, potentially leading to disease outbreaks. The current health situation makes it difficult for medical staff to return to work, posing a significant threat to mental health. Training is crucial, and WHO is working to attract more doctors and ensure the availability of medical supplies. She added that one of Damascus’ major hospitals is suffering from a shortage of medicines and medical equipment, highlighting the need to strengthen medical capabilities and rebuild healthcare infrastructure.
She also expressed concern over the impact of U.S. funding cuts, stating that it would not only affect the healthcare sector but also limit access to clean water and efforts to prevent disease outbreaks.