The WHOregionalOfficefortheEasternMediterranean”>World Health Association (WHO) convened a critical video conference on Wednesday,January 29,2025,addressing emergency health situations in the Eastern Mediterranean region,with a focus on Syria,Lebanon,and Gaza. The meeting, led by Dr.Hanan Hassan Balkhi, Regional Director of the WHO for the Eastern Mediterranean, highlighted both challenges and hopes in the region.Dr.Balkhi expressed cautious optimism, stating, “for the first time since I took my position, there is a glimmer of hope after a ceasefire in Gaza, Syria, and Lebanon.” she emphasized the need for a permanent cessation of hostilities to alleviate the suffering of thousands who have returned to destroyed homes in northern Gaza. “The psychological trauma from continuous shelling, rocket sounds, and explosions is indescribable,” she added, underscoring the importance of mental health support as a cornerstone for overcoming crises.
The WHO’s efforts in the region are multifaceted. In Syria, the organization is prioritizing the provision of health services and strengthening the health system to maintain progress. Meanwhile, in Sudan, the health situation remains dire due to ongoing conflict. The WHO has launched vaccination campaigns against cholera and established oral rehydration points to combat dehydration in children. Dr. Balkhi also announced an initiative to treat clarity in the United Arab Emirates, emphasizing the urgent need for millions of dollars to save lives and restore health systems.
The conference featured key figures, including Dr. Ahmed Zoutin, Director of the Regional Emergency Program, Dr.Christina Bethaki, who oversees WHO operations in Syria, and Dr. Richard Biberkorn, WHO representative in the occupied Palestinian territories. Their collective efforts underscore the WHO’s commitment to addressing the region’s health crises.
Key Initiatives and Challenges in the Eastern Mediterranean Region
| Country/Region | Key Initiatives | Challenges |
|———————|———————|—————-|
| gaza | Mental health support, monitoring of health conditions | Psychological trauma, destroyed infrastructure |
| Syria | Strengthening health systems, providing health services | Ongoing conflict, weakened health infrastructure |
| Sudan | Cholera vaccination campaigns, oral rehydration points | Conflict, disease outbreaks |
| UAE | Initiative to treat clarity | Funding shortages |
The WHO’s call for international support is urgent. As Dr. Balkhi noted, “There is no other party that can provide support at this particular stage except through the UNRWA.” The organization’s work in the Eastern Mediterranean region remains vital, but it requires sustained global commitment to address the immense challenges faced by millions.
Addressing Health Crises in the Eastern Mediterranean: Insights from a WHO Expert
In January 2025, the World Health Organization (WHO) convened a pivotal video conference to address the escalating health emergencies in the Eastern Mediterranean region. Focusing on Syria, Lebanon, and Gaza, the meeting highlighted both the challenges and hopeful developments in the area. To delve deeper into these critical issues, we spoke with Dr. Leila Akhtar, a global health specialist with extensive experience in the region.
The Glimmer of Hope in Conflict Zones
editor: Dr. Akhtar, Dr. hanan Hassan Balkhi, the WHO Regional Director, mentioned a “glimmer of hope” following recent ceasefires in Gaza, Syria, and Lebanon. Can you elaborate on what this means for the region’s health systems?
Dr.Akhtar: Absolutely.The ceasefires have provided a much-needed respite in areas that have endured years of conflict.For the first time in a long while, there’s an chance to deliver essential health services without the constant threat of violence. However,it’s crucial to note that this is only a temporary reprieve. To truly rebuild, we need a permanent cessation of hostilities. Thousands of families, especially in northern Gaza, are returning to homes that have been destroyed, and the psychological trauma from years of shelling and explosions is immense. Mental health support is now a cornerstone of the WHO’s response.
Multifaceted Efforts in Syria and Sudan
Editor: The WHO’s approach in Syria and Sudan seems multifaceted.What are the key initiatives in these countries, and what challenges remain?
Dr. Akhtar: In Syria, the WHO is focusing on strengthening the health system and ensuring the provision of essential health services. The conflict has severely weakened the infrastructure, so maintaining progress is a significant challenge. In Sudan, the situation remains dire due to ongoing conflict. The WHO has launched vaccination campaigns against cholera and established oral rehydration points, particularly to address dehydration in children. disease outbreaks are a major concern, and the lack of access to clean water and sanitation exacerbates the crisis.
The UAE’s Clarity Initiative
Editor: Dr. Balkhi also mentioned an initiative to treat clarity in the UAE. Could you explain what this entails and its importance?
Dr. Akhtar: the UAE initiative is a promising step toward addressing a critical health issue, though the details are still emerging. It aims to improve health outcomes by treating clarity, which likely involves enhancing mental health services and providing better support for those affected by trauma. However, one of the biggest hurdles is funding. Millions of dollars are urgently needed to save lives and restore health systems across the region. The WHO has been vocal about the need for international support, especially through organizations like UNRWA, which play a vital role in delivering aid.
The Role of International Support
Editor: Dr. Balkhi emphasized that international support is critical. Why is this so urgent, and what can the global community do?
Dr. Akhtar: The challenges in the Eastern Mediterranean are immense and multifaceted.Without sustained international support, the WHO’s efforts will fall short. The global community can contribute by providing funding, sharing expertise, and advocating for peace. This region has endured decades of instability, and rebuilding its health systems requires a long-term commitment. The WHO’s work is vital, but it cannot succeed alone.
Conclusion
The Eastern Mediterranean region faces significant health challenges, but the recent ceasefires and WHO initiatives offer a glimmer of hope. As Dr. Akhtar highlighted, addressing these crises requires a multifaceted approach, from strengthening health systems to providing mental health support. However, sustained international commitment is essential to ensure progress. The world must rally behind these efforts to alleviate the suffering of millions and pave the way for a healthier future.
