Geneva, 8 February 2026 - The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies expresses its deep sorrow and sadness at the death of volunteer Samiha Rakhamiya of the Syrian Arab Red Crescent while carrying out a humanitarian mission to rescue people stranded by floods in rural Lattakia.

The incident occurred at midnight between the 7 and 8 of February when a vehicle was swept into a valley in the Jabal al-Turkman area, resulting in the death of Samiha and injuries to four volunteers of varying severity. A fifth volunteer was injured during efforts to rescue a child stranded by the floods.

Samiha served the Syrian Arab Red Crescent for more than 12 years, demonstrating remarkable dedication and courage throughout her humanitarian work. She was among the first responders to earthquakes and fires and most recently served as Disaster Management Coordinator in Lattakia, leaving a lasting impact on her colleagues and the communities she supported.

The IFRC extends its heartfelt condolences to her family and to her colleagues at the Syrian Arab Red Crescent, and wishes a speedy recovery to the injured volunteers.

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