Geneva: The World Health Organization (WHO) warned on Tuesday of the imminent collapse of the health system in Syria due to recent attacks on health facilities, noting that less than eight hospitals are still operating with very limited capacity in conflict-affected areas. Speaking at a press briefing in Geneva, WHO Representative in Syria Christina Bethke said: "We have witnessed the destruction of essential health facilities as a result of recent air strikes in Idlib, including major hospitals and health facilities such as the University Hospital and the Maternity Hospital." She explained that lifeline health infrastructure such as ambulances are also at risk of ceasing to operate due to lack of fuel and maintenance, which could exacerbate the suffering of more than five million people in the region. According to Kuwait News Agency, Bethke stressed that the Syrian people are "paying an unbearable price" as a result of the recent escalation in north-west Syria. She emphasized the dire need for urgent intern ational intervention to support Syria's health sector and provide immediate funding to secure essential services for the affected population.
