Palestine Wins Right to Raise Flag at WHO in Symbolic Victory Amid Growing International Recognition
95 countries vote in favor as Palestinians gain ground in global forums; Israel and allies object to move at Geneva meeting.
Watan-The Palestinian delegation won the right to raise its flag at the World Health Organization (WHO) after a symbolic vote held on Monday, which the Palestinian ambassador to the United Nations in Geneva hopes will lead to broader recognition both within and beyond the international organization.
Four countries opposed the Palestinians’ right to fly their flag at the WHO: Israel, Hungary, the Czech Republic, and Germany.
The WHO’s annual assembly in Geneva approved the motion—introduced by China, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and other countries—with a majority of 95 votes in favor. Four countries objected, while 27 abstained.
This vote follows last year’s successful Palestinian bid for enhanced status at the UN General Assembly, and comes amid indications that France may soon recognize the State of Palestine.
In a clear reference to Israel’s devastating war on Gaza, Lebanese delegate Randa Khoury stated that the result brings
“a small glimmer of hope to the brave Palestinian people, whose suffering has reached unbearable levels.”
Israeli Objection
Israeli Ambassador Daniel Meron objected to the WHO decision, arguing that it undermines UN principles and the rules-based international order.
“This decision sends a dangerous message—that political symbolism may override legal standards, that emotions may replace procedure, and that biased interests may bend the rules of international legitimacy,” he said, calling for a formal vote on the matter.
The United States, Israel’s closest ally, did not participate in the vote. The U.S. has signaled its intention to withdraw from the WHO, further complicating its position.
Recognition and Status
Despite nearly 150 countries recognizing the State of Palestine, major Western powers including the U.S., UK, France, Germany, and Japan still do not.
In this vote:
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France and Japan voted in favor
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The United Kingdom abstained
Palestine officially holds observer state status at the WHO, which is currently navigating a shift in its global alliances as it prepares for a future without U.S. funding, its largest contributor.
Just last week, Palestinians gained the right to receive health notifications under WHO’s International Health Regulations, a global system for monitoring disease outbreaks.