• WHO regrets US withdrawal, citing impact on global health security. • US cited COVID-19 failures, but WHO defends transparent response during pandemic. • WHO highlights US contributions to eradicating smallpox, polio, HIV, etc. • Executive Board to review withdrawal at Feb meeting; Assembly in May 2026. • WHO stresses respect for US sovereignty and good faith engagement. • WHO urges continued global cooperation to address antimicrobial resistance, malaria, etc.

Article Summaries:

  • WHO has expressed regret over the United States’ decision to withdraw from the organization, noting that the move will make both the U.S. and the world “less safe.” The WHO Executive Board will review the issue at its meeting on 2 February, and the World Health Assembly will consider it at its May 2026 session. In response to U.S. accusations that WHO failed during the COVID‑19 pandemic, the agency reiterated that it acted swiftly, shared information transparently, and advised on masks, vaccines and distancing without mandating restrictions. WHO said it will strengthen its pandemic‑preparedness systems and support member states’ independent decision‑making.

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