The head of the World Health Organization, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, has cautioned that attacks on nuclear sites are creating an “escalating threat” to public health.
Speaking amid ongoing conflict, Tedros warned that damage to such facilities could result in the release of hazardous radiation, endangering nearby populations and straining already fragile health systems. He stressed that any strike on nuclear infrastructure carries severe and long-term consequences for human health and the environment.
He also highlighted the risks to medical services, noting that health facilities could be overwhelmed in the event of radiation exposure, while emergency response capacity may be limited in conflict zones.
The WHO chief called on all parties to exercise maximum restraint and adhere to international humanitarian principles, emphasizing the need to protect critical infrastructure.
The warning comes as concerns grow within the international community that continued attacks on sensitive sites could significantly worsen the humanitarian situation and trigger broader public health crises.
