The Palestinian delegation has secured the right to raise their flag at the World Health Organization (WHO) for the first time, signaling a symbolic milestone in their ongoing quest for international recognition. This decision was reached during the WHO’s annual assembly in Geneva, where a resolution supporting the Palestinian flag was adopted with 95 votes in favour, four against, and 27 abstentions.
The resolution, sponsored by China, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and other nations, represents an extension of Palestine's recent advancements in global diplomatic arenas. It follows last year's successful bid for membership at the United Nations General Assembly and coincides with growing indications that France may officially recognise Palestine as a state.
Lebanon’s delegate, Rana el Khoury, referenced the severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, describing the vote as “a small ray of hope for the brave Palestinian people whose suffering has reached unbearable levels.”
Opposition came from Israel—represented by ambassador Daniel Meron—who condemned the resolution, stating it undermined the foundational principles of the United Nations and the established international legal framework. Israel, alongside Hungary, the Czech Republic, and Germany, voted against the proposal. The United States, Israel’s key ally and the WHO’s largest financial contributor until recently, abstained by not participating, amidst its planned withdrawal from the organization.
Notably, major Western powers remain divided on recognition of a Palestinian state. While France and Japan supported the resolution, Britain abstained, and countries such as the United States, Germany, and others continue to withhold recognition.
Palestinian Ambassador to the United Nations in Geneva, Ibrahim Khraishi, described the flag-raising as a symbolic but significant step toward full WHO membership and broader international acceptance. “This act signifies our belonging to the international community and facilitates collaboration on crucial health issues,” he stated.
The Palestinians seek sovereign statehood within the territories Israel has occupied since the 1967 Middle East war. Although they hold official observer status at the WHO, this recent development marks a further integration into global institutional frameworks.
In addition to flag recognition, the Palestinians recently obtained the right to receive notifications under the WHO’s International Health Regulations, enhancing their capacity to monitor and respond to public health emergencies on an international scale.
