The suspension of US funding to the World Health Organization has put critical health operations in Gaza at risk, leaving $46 million in aid frozen.
WHO representative Dr. Rik Peeperkorn warned that this decision would impact six key areas, including emergency medical teams, rehabilitation of health facilities, coordination with partner organizations, and medical evacuations.
Despite the funding freeze, WHO officials say they are pushing forward with operations. Speaking from Gaza at a UN briefing in Geneva, Peeperkorn confirmed that funding remains in WHO’s pipeline, and efforts to support the region’s healthcare system are continuing.
Meanwhile, WHO spokesperson Tarik Jasarevic said the full impact of US funding cuts on the organization’s global operations remains unclear. The situation raises concerns about the future of healthcare support in Gaza, where humanitarian needs remain critical.