WHO Chief Rejects US Withdrawal Reasons as 'Untrue', Hopes for Future Return

• WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus stated that the reasons cited by the US for its withdrawal from the organization are untrue.
• He expressed hope for the US to return to active participation in the WHO, highlighting its significant contributions as a founding member.
• The WHO chief emphasized that the withdrawal makes both the US and the world less safe, reaffirming WHO's commitment to global health.
• The WHO defended its COVID-19 pandemic response, stating it acted quickly, shared information transparently, and advised based on best evidence.
• The US terminated its WHO membership citing inefficient bureaucracy, mishandling of the COVID-19 pandemic, and 'failures' inflicted on Americans.

Why It Matters: WHO Chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus refutes US reasons for withdrawal, emphasizing global health and hoping for US return.