Cairo:Ali Jafarian, a senior advisor to Iran's health minister, emphasized the need to keep health issues separate from political disputes, highlighting its role as a bridge for peace and stability. He made these remarks during the 73rd session of the World Health Organization's Regional Committee for the Eastern Mediterranean, held from October 13 to 15.

According to Islamic Republic News Agency, Jafarian addressed the negative effects of war and sanctions on Iran's health system. He stated that over the past 15 months, the conflict imposed by the United States and Israel has damaged more than 87 hospitals and clinics, 230 primary health care centers, 25 pharmaceutical factories, and 70 ambulances in Iran.

He further criticized the intensification of unilateral coercive measures by the US, which he said have severely disrupted the supply of medicines, vaccines, pharmaceutical raw materials, and medical equipment. Jafarian called for an end to these measures, which he described as inhumane.

Jafarian also advocated for stronger regional cooperation in emergency response, local production of essential health products, technology transfer, knowledge sharing, and the development of health information systems. He urged for a shared commitment among countries to protect essential health services, reduce inequalities, and enhance regional preparedness for health emergencies.

During the session's opening ceremony, Professor Amir Ali Hamidieh of Iran was awarded the Kuwait Government Award for his work in cancer control. The session, held at the WHO's Regional Office in Cairo, is themed 'Together for a Healthier Future Action, Access and Equity,' with participation from health ministers and high-level delegations from 22 countries and territories.