India, Jan. 23 -- The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the U.S. Department of State have formally announced the completion of the United States' withdrawal from the World Health Organization (WHO), citing the global health body's mishandling of the COVID-19 pandemic, failure to implement critical reforms, and inability to remain independent from political influence by member states.

Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Secretary of State Marco Rubio issued a joint statement confirming the termination of U.S. membership in the WHO.

"President Trump announced the U.S. plan to exit the WHO on January 20, 2025. Over the year-long withdrawal process, the United States halted funding to the organ...