RAMALLAH, July 6, 2026 (WAFA) – Undersecretary of the Ministry of Health Wael Al-Sheikh on Monday discussed with UNICEF Regional Health Advisor Sowmya Kadandale ways to strengthen joint cooperation and support the Palestinian health sector amid the escalating challenges confronting the sector.

During the meeting, held at his office in Ramallah, Al-Sheikh reviewed the health situation in Palestine and the major challenges confronting the sector in the West Bank, including Jerusalem hospitals, as well as the difficult humanitarian and health conditions in the Gaza Strip, which have placed increasing pressure on the healthcare system.

The Undersecretary of the Ministry of Health also briefed the UNICEF delegation on the repercussions of the financial crisis affecting the health sector and the resulting impact on the sustainability of healthcare services. He stressed that the Ministry of Health continues to fulfill its national and humanitarian responsibilities by providing medical services to citizens within the available resources and capabilities despite the exceptional circumstances and mounting challenges.

Al-Sheikh called on UNICEF to continue its support for the Palestinian health sector to strengthen the Ministry’s capacity to respond to growing health needs. He praised the organization’s role in supporting the Ministry of Health and its health programs, as well as the ongoing partnership between the two sides.

For her part, Kadandale reaffirmed UNICEF’s commitment to continuing cooperation with the Ministry of Health and to supporting its efforts to strengthen healthcare services and address priority needs.

T.R