WHO, with KSrelief support, has delivered five fully equipped ambulances to Syria’s Ministry of Health to enhance emergency response, referral systems and access to life-saving care across the country.
The World Health Organization (WHO), with financial support from the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre (KSrelief), has handed over five fully equipped ambulances to Syria’s Ministry of Health, reinforcing the country’s emergency referral system and expanding access to life-saving medical care nationwide.
The handover ceremony took place at the Ministry of Health headquarters in Damascus, attended by senior officials from the Ministry, representatives of the Saudi delegation, and WHO leadership. The event formed part of the official visit of WHO Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean, Dr Hanan Balkhy, highlighting WHO’s continued collaboration with Syrian authorities to support health system recovery and resilience.
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The ambulances will be operated under the supervision of the Ministry of Health to strengthen emergency response capacity and referral pathways. They will enable the rapid and safe transfer of critically ill patients from primary healthcare facilities to hospitals offering advanced and specialised services. Fully equipped to manage trauma cases, medical emergencies and urgent referrals, the vehicles are expected to significantly reduce delays in care and help prevent avoidable deaths.
Dr. Abdullah Al Rabeeah, Supervisor General of KSrelief, stated, “We are pleased to partner with WHO in providing these ambulances to the Syrian Ministry of Health to support the country’s emergency referral system. All patients should have access to the advanced and specialized medical care they need, and KSrelief is committed to working with valued partners like WHO to improve health outcomes in Syria and around the world.”
Dr. Musaab Alali, the Minister of Health said, “Today marks an important step in strengthening the emergency response system through a close partnership with the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center and the World Health Organization, with the provision of five fully equipped ambulances. This support will reinforce the emergency referral system and enable the safe and rapid transport of critically ill and injured patients, improving preparedness and helping save lives. We highly appreciate this essential support and extend our sincere thanks to the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center and our international partners for their continued humanitarian commitment to protecting human life.”
Speaking on the occasion, Dr Asmus Hammerich, Acting WHO Representative in Syria, highlighted the importance of the partnership and the timing of the handover during the Regional Director’s visit. “Strengthening emergency referral systems is essential to saving lives and restoring trust in health services,” said Dr Hammerich. “This handover reflects the strong partnership between the Ministry of Health, KSrelief and WHO, and comes at a critical moment as we work together to support Syria’s health system recovery, improve emergency response, and ensure that people can access timely, quality care when they need it most.”
