The discussion surrounding Havana Syndrome, also referred to as AHI, has intensified as investigations into the origins of these debilitating neurological symptoms continue. Since 2016, this condition has afflicted numerous U.S. officials. Recent comments from U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio have clarified that, after reviewing the accumulated evidence, the theory of deliberate attacks using directed energy weapons has been dismissed. Instead, the symptoms are attributed to accidents, mass hysteria, or preexisting conditions.
“I believe the evidence and time will prove me right—that these incidents happened accidentally, were the result of mass hysteria, or due to certain preexisting conditions. In some cases, perhaps, but there’s no doubt that something caused people to suffer these symptoms in various locations worldwide, not just in Havana,” Rubio told reporter Catherine Herridge.
He emphasized that “there's still much work to be done,” noting that he has personally met some of those affected by the syndrome, which gained prominence during the first term (2017-2021) of then-U.S. President Donald Trump (2025-2029).
“I’ve met some of these individuals, interacted with them over the years, and while I can’t explain every case, I do believe there are instances where the only logical explanation is that some external mechanism caused them to suffer brain injuries. In many cases, it seemed as if they had been hit on the head with a baseball bat or assaulted in some manner. We can’t ignore that,” Rubio pointed out.
The Secretary of State underscored the importance of treating the affected individuals with seriousness, particularly those officials and workers who have served abroad, ensuring they receive the necessary support and treatment.
“Meanwhile, we must ensure that, whether they are State Department officials or employees of another agency, these individuals receive the treatment and support they need. One of my main commitments is to ensure that these are people we sent overseas to serve our country. They suffered harm while serving our nation and deserve our unwavering support, not to be accused of things like mass hysteria or simply being...” he stressed.
Rubio highlighted the ongoing need to investigate this phenomenon, acknowledging that questions remain unresolved regarding the origin of the neurological injuries observed in various parts of the world. He reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring that affected officials and workers receive the necessary treatment and support, emphasizing the moral obligation to protect those who have served the country abroad.
“I think it’s outrageous. And I don’t know what the intention behind it was, but ultimately, this State Department will be transparent with them. Everything we know, they will know. Meanwhile, we will assume the worst and treat them as victims. No matter what, we will treat them as people harmed while serving our country overseas,” Rubio declared.
Victims of the “Havana Syndrome,” including U.S. officials stationed in Cuba, Russia, and China, have criticized the lack of transparency in the investigations. In a recent White House meeting, the National Security Council (NSC) expressed its support for the affected individuals, apologizing for how they were treated and promising to continue the investigations, according to statements reported by El Nuevo Herald.
Meanwhile, Marc Polymeropoulos, a former CIA officer affected by this syndrome, noted that a new intelligence report in the United States, published earlier this year, represents a significant advancement, although he lamented the resistance from some sectors within the intelligence community.
Allegations of a cover-up have also arisen. A Congressional report, released in December 2024, questioned the 2023 assessment that dismissed the involvement of foreign actors. This document pointed to possible attempts by the CIA to obstruct the investigations, sparking debate over the handling of this phenomenon.
Frequently Asked Questions About Havana Syndrome
What is Havana Syndrome?
Havana Syndrome is a set of debilitating neurological symptoms reported by U.S. officials since 2016, affecting those stationed in various parts of the world, including Cuba, Russia, and China.
What are the suspected causes of Havana Syndrome?
Suspected causes have included mass hysteria, preexisting conditions, or accidental exposure to some external mechanism. Deliberate attacks using directed energy weapons have been ruled out.
How has the U.S. government responded to Havana Syndrome?
The U.S. government has pledged to provide treatment and support to affected individuals and is committed to continuing investigations into the phenomenon.