More than 20,000 children under the age of five across Syria suffer from malnutrition, including 1,500 children who are at risk of developing medical complications due to a lack of medical supplies resulting from economic sanctions, Al-Mandhari told reporters after visiting Syrian hospitals and health centers.

He stressed the fact that many Syrians are still vulnerable to outbreaks of diseases such as cholera, which has appeared in six governorates, killing 23 people and infecting 253 others.

Al-Mandhari added that the blockade leaves medical equipment out of service due to the impossibility of importing spare parts needed to repair them, and also causes shortages of fuel, water and electricity.

He called on the international community to lift these punitive measures and show solidarity with the Syrian people and give them the opportunity to live a dignified life in which they enjoy health and well-being.

“We must face the roots of this health crisis and provide the necessary support to Syrians to recover and rebuild their country,” he concluded.

Iman Shanqiti, WHO’s acting representative in Syria, said for his part that the organization is coordinating with the Syrian government to ensure that all medical aid reaches those who need it.

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