Thursday, July 23, 2026

World News

WHO warns $30.3 million urgently needed as Middle East health systems strain under conflict

The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued an urgent appeal for international support as health systems across parts of the Middle East face mounting pressure after five weeks of escalating conflict.

TAS News Service

info@thearabianstories.com

Saturday, April 4, 2026

Geneva: In a statement shared on social media, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the WHO, called on global donors to step in immediately to support countries grappling with the humanitarian fallout of the crisis.

The appeal focuses on five countries, Lebanon, Iran, Iraq, Syria, and Jordan, where healthcare systems are reportedly under severe strain due to the ongoing escalation in violence.

Tedros emphasized that the situation has significantly impacted the ability of these nations to maintain essential medical services, warning that without immediate intervention, the consequences could worsen.

To address the crisis, the WHO has launched an urgent funding appeal of US$30.3 million, covering the period from March to August 2026. The funding aims to sustain basic health services, provide critical care for the injured, and reinforce disease surveillance and early warning systems.

Additionally, the initiative seeks to strengthen national preparedness for potential chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear emergencies, amid growing concerns over the broader implications of the conflict.

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