The World Health Organization pressed Washington to release any withheld intelligence about the pandemic’s origins. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus made the appeal during a press conference on Wednesday.
He noted that the United States had publicly claimed to possess such intelligence. Tedros explained that the agency contacted senior U.S. officials several months earlier. They requested the sharing of any relevant intelligence information.
No Response Received from U.S.
Tedros stated that the WHO received no information in response. He expressed hope that the United States would provide the data. He emphasized that the origins of COVID-19 remained unresolved. Sharing such details, he added, could help prevent future pandemics.
Broader Appeal to All Governments
Tedros extended the request to any government holding intelligence on the pandemic’s origins. He stressed that the WHO needed this information to reach a firm conclusion. He reiterated that understanding the source served a critical purpose for global health security.
Context of Ongoing Debate
The appeal came amid persistent questions about whether the virus emerged naturally or through a laboratory incident. Earlier U.S. intelligence assessments showed divisions among agencies.
Some favored a natural spillover from animals, while others leaned toward a lab related event. The WHO maintained that all hypotheses stayed open due to incomplete evidence.
Link to U.S. Withdrawal from WHO
The call occurred after the United States withdrew from the WHO. Despite the exit, Tedros highlighted the importance of cooperation. He pointed out that Washington had not shared intelligence before leaving the organization.
Scientific Imperative Stressed
Tedros underscored that full transparency from all parties advanced scientific understanding. He linked the request to the broader goal of averting the next pandemic. The WHO continued its efforts through advisory groups and appeals for data sharing.
