Iran: Complex Emergency 2026

Since late February 2026, devastating strikes across Iran have killed hundreds, injured thousands, and disrupted essential services for up to 60 million people. The Iranian Red Crescent Society has mobilized thousands of responders to deliver search and rescue, medical aid, and emergency relief across the country — but the scale of need is far beyond what they can meet alone. Donate today to help the Iranian Red Crescent reach 10 million people with life-saving assistance.

Silent humanitarian crises deepen across Lebanon and Iran

Beirut/Tehran/Geneva,26May2026 —Three months since the escalation of hostilities in Lebanon and Iran, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) is warning that multiple silent humanitarian crises are deepening across the region — with long-term consequences for health systems, food security, displacement, and community resilience.While international attention has shifted elsewhere, millions of people continue to face displacement, damaged healthcare systems, disrupted livelihoods, andgrowingchallengesto accessing essential services.Ongoing geopolitical tensions and restrictions affecting regional transportation routes, including through the Strait of Hormuz, continue to hinder humanitarian supply chains and increase the cost of delivering aid. “Behind the headlines, multiple silent crises are deepening with consequences that will last for years,”saidCristhian Cardoza, Deputy Regional Director for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) at the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC). “Families are being pushed beyond breaking point — struggling to afford food, medicine, fuel and shelter, while damaged health systems, displacement, and economic pressure continue to drive humanitarian needs higher every day.”Health systems under severe strain in Iran In Iran, the humanitarian consequences of the escalation continue long after the ceasefire. The conflict has seriously disrupted healthcare delivery nationwide, including 56 Iranian Red Crescent Society (IRCS)centresnationwide. For patients living with chronic illnesses, disruptions to healthcare and medical supply chains are becoming life-threatening.Restrictions affecting transport routescontinue to complicate access to critical medicines and equipment.Despite the pressures, IRCS teams have continued large-scale humanitarian operations across the country, including search and rescue, emergency medical care, and psychosocial support services.Food insecurity deepens across LebanonAnother alarming trend is rapidly emerging:nearly onein four people in Lebanon — around 1.24 million people — are now expected to face acute food insecurity between April and August 2026, according toanalysis from the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC). The deterioration is being driven by continued hostilities,prolongeddisplacement, economic collapse, and soaring fuel prices. Fuel prices in Lebanon have risen sharply since the escalation, withdiesel increasing by more than65 per cent, according tothe World FoodProgramme.At the same time,the Minister of Agriculture has warnedthatapproximately 22 per cent ofagricultural land in affected areas has been damaged, further undermining food production and livelihoods. Over1 million peoplein thecountryare currently displaced, with manypeople,especiallyfromthesouth,unable to return home due to ongoing hostilities and destroyedinfrastructure,nowliving in tents following the intense recent hostilities. Protectionconcerns and funding gapthreaten humanitarian responseThe IFRC also reiterated urgent concerns over attacks affecting healthcare workers, ambulances, and humanitarian responders.In Iran and Lebanon combined,sixRed Cross and Red Crescent volunteers have been killed while carrying out humanitarian worksince the recent escalation. “Our teams on the ground are clear - what they need above all else is protection,”saidMrCardoza.“These brave staff and volunteers should not have tofear for their lives when they get an emergency call and travel in theirambulances.“Hospitals, ambulances, medical personnel and humanitarian workers mustbe respected and protected.”The IFRC warned that severe funding shortfalls are threatening the continuity of humanitarian operations across the region.“Behind these numbers are real consequences,”continuedMrCardoza.“Operations may need to be scaled back, supplies delayed or cut, and there will be people we cannot reach.”The IFRC’s Emergency Appeal for Iran is currently only four per cent funded, while the Lebanon appealremainsunder 14 per cent funded.The IFRC called on donors and the international community to provide sustained and flexible funding to support emergency operations, recovery efforts, and longer-term humanitarian needs across the region.Spokespeople are available in Beirut,Tehranand Geneva.For more information or to set up an interview contact: [email protected] Geneva:Tommaso DellaLonga,+41 79 708 4367Matthew Carter, +44 7557 802463In Beirut:Mey El Sayegh, +961 03 229 352

IFRC dispatches critical medical supplies from Türkiye to support urgent needs in Iran; calls for scaled up support

Ankara/Geneva, 10 April 2026 – The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), in coordination with the Turkish Red Crescent, is delivering life-saving medical supplies and humanitarian relief items from Türkiye to Iran, as humanitarian needs in the country continue to grow sharply.The operation is underway, with a convoy departing Ankara on Friday April 10, which will proceed through eastern Türkiye and into Iran over the weekend (with timings subject to confirmation). The shipment includes trauma kits designed to provide immediate, life-saving care in critical situations, alongside additional humanitarian supplies including tents, blankets and hygiene items provided by the Turkish Red Crescent.The operation is critical as humanitarian supply chains into Iran have been severely disrupted in recent weeks due to the conflict, making it increasingly difficult and more costly for essential medical and relief items to reach those in need. As a result, the supplies are being transported overland from eastern Türkiye into Iran.The IFRC is mobilising 200 advanced trauma kits for the Iranian Red Crescent, marking one of the first cross-border shipments of medical supplies since the start of the conflict. These trauma kits contain essential equipment to treat serious injuries and stabilise patients, designed to provide immediate, life-saving care in critical situations.The operation highlights how humanitarian supply chains are adapting in real time under significant pressure, with sourcing shifted to Türkiye to prioritise speed and ensure that urgent medical needs can be met. Working through its global network, the IFRC is able to quickly identify suppliers, activate logistics capacity and use available corridors to move aid despite severe constraints.“These trauma kits are used by Iranian Red Crescent rescue teams in the most critical moments, when immediate care can mean the difference between life and death. This shipment is about ensuring that vital support reaches people as quickly as possible, despite the challenges to global supply chains. This aid will save lives, we will continue to scale it up. This operation demonstrates how the IFRC’s supply chain is adapting in real time under immense pressure,” said Cecile Terraz, IFRC Director of Global Humanitarian Services and Supply Chain Management.This coordinated effort with the Turkish Red Crescent highlights the role of the IFRC in mobilising support across borders to respond to urgent humanitarian needs.The IFRC and its partners continue to work closely with national authorities and humanitarian actors to support the delivery of assistance and respond to evolving needs on the ground.With humanitarian needs growing rapidly, the IFRC is calling for urgent international support to its CHF 120 million Emergency Appeal to sustain and scale up life-saving assistance for people affected across Iran.For more information or to request an interview, please contact: [email protected] At the Türkiye/Iran border:Scott Craig, +41 76 370 3575Sevil Erkus, +90 536 644 91 22In Budapest:Nora Peter, +36 70 265 4020

IFRC mourns Alireza, the third Iranian Red Crescent volunteer in a month to be killed in an airstrike while helping others

Tehran/Beirut/Geneva, 01 April 2026: The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) mourns with deep sorrow the death of Alireza Sohbatlou, a 35-year-old relief worker of the Iranian Red Crescent Society (IRCS). He was killed on the morning of Tuesday 31 March in an airstrike in the northwestern province of Zanjan, while doing what he had done for 15 years - helping others. The IFRC grieves in solidarity with his family, his loved ones, and his fellow IRCS colleagues. Alireza is the third Iranian Red Crescent volunteer to be killed in just one month of conflict. Three lives have ended while they were saving others in Iran. This must stop.Alireza was a humanitarian. He was a colleague, a person who chose - for 15 years - to give his time, skills and expertise assisting others, through the Zanjan branch of the Iranian Red Crescent Society (IRCS). At the time of the strike, Alireza was at the Hussainiya clinic providing humanitarian services to those in need, when the nearby religious site Azam Hussainiya of Zanjan was hit. The Red Crescent emblem is an internationally recognized symbol of neutral, impartial and independent humanitarian assistance; its use is established by law. The symbol identifies those who wear it as people there to help. Ensuring the protection of humanitarians wearing the emblem is not only a moral issue, but an imperative international legal norm. The safety of those protecting and assisting others must be ensuredIn 2026 alone, ten members of the IFRC network globally have now lost their lives in line of duty. Each one leaves behind them families who loved them, friends and colleagues who will miss them, and communities who needed them. Alireza was one of them.For more information: [email protected]    In Beirut:   Mey Al Sayegh, +961 761 744 68    In Geneva:  Tommaso Della Longa, +41 79 708 4367 

IFRC outraged by the killing of a second Iranian Red Crescent volunteer as the conflict marks one month

Tehran/Beirut/Geneva, 30March 2026: The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) is outraged by the killing of Dr. Somayeh Mir Abo Eshagh, a 44-year-old volunteer with the Iranian Red Crescent Society (IRCS) from Khansar in the Ishafan Province in central Iran. She tragically lost her life during airstrikes, while on duty, on 27 March. Just one month into the conflict, Dr. Somayeh is the second Iranian Red Crescent volunteer killed while saving lives.Dr. Somayeh lost her life while carrying out a Red Crescent mission to provide humanitarian relief assistance and psychosocial support services to those in need. She had dedicated 22 years of volunteering for the IRCS intermittently. IFRC expresses its deepest condolences to her family, loved ones, and all colleagues at IRCS. We stand in solidarity with the Iranian Red Crescent Society and all humanitarian workers providing life-saving assistance in difficult and often dangerous conditions. Once again, our network is mourning the loss of a colleague. Earlier this month in Iran, Hamidreza Jahanbakhsh, another Iranian Red Crescent Society volunteer, was killed during a search and rescue operation, also in the Ishafan province. Since the outbreak of the conflict, 17 IRCS colleagues have also been injured. The Red Crescent emblem is an internationally recognized symbol of protection, humanity and neutrality; it is essential to respect it and uphold the safety of humanitarian personnel to ensure the delivery of impartial, life-saving assistance to people in need.The killing of Soumaya, and any attack on humanitarians is unacceptable and must be condemned. We continue to call for the protection of humanitarian teams who risk everything to save lives - this is a moral and legal obligation. In just the first three months of 2026, nine members of the IFRC network have lost their lives in the line of duty globally.For more information: [email protected]    In Beirut:   Mey Al Sayegh, +961 761 744 68    In Geneva:  Tommaso Della Longa, +41 79 708 4367 

Another Iranian Red Crescent volunteer killed while assisting others, the fourth in just five weeks: IFRC mourns 20-year-old Abolfazl Dahanavi

Tehran/Beirut/Geneva, 04 April 2026:The International Federationof Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) mourns with deep sorrow thekillingof AbolfazlDahanavi,who was only 20yearsold. Hedied onthemorning ofSaturday 4 AprilinMobarekehCounty,in theIsfahan Province,as a result ofan airstrike,while carrying out humanitarian activities.Abolfazl is the fourth Iranian Red Crescent volunteer killedin the line of dutysincethe conflictbegan on 28 February 2026. He was only 16 years old when he started volunteering for the IRCS,dedicating four yearstoserving othersbefore his life was cut short at 20.Fourvolunteershave been killedwhile saving others-in justfive weeksof conflict.This is unjustifiable.We have mourned before. We have called for protection before. We are calling again with greater urgency and outrage: the killing of humanitarianpersonnelmust stop.The Red Crescent emblem is an internationally recognizedand protectedsymbol of neutral,impartialand independenthumanitarianassistance. Those who wear it are there to help–andmustbe protected.The IFRC extends its deepest condolences to the family, loved ones, and colleagues of Abolfazl, and stands infullsolidarity with the Iranian Red Crescent Society and the thousands of volunteers whoseremarkable couragemust be matched with universalcommitmentto protect them asthey continueto serve people in desperate need.For more information or to request an interview, please contact:[email protected] Beirut:    Mey Al Sayegh, +961 761 744 68     In Geneva:Tommaso Della Longa, +41 79 708 4367 

Through rubble and loss, Iranian Red Crescent teams continue saving lives amid escalating hostilities

This article is based on the emergency response efforts as of 2 April 2026.As hostilities continue to escalate across Iran, civilians are bearing the brunt of the violence, with attacks reported across 30 out of 31 provinces.In less than a month, more than 2,000 people have been killed, including women and children, and at least 21,000 injured. Many families have been forced to flee their homes, with an estimated 3 per cent of Iran’s population of around 92 million now internally displaced.Homes, neighbourhoods and essential services have been damaged, placing growing pressure on hospitals, shelters, and basic infrastructure.At the forefront of the response, the Iranian Red Crescent Society (IRCS) has mobilized its nationwide network of volunteers and emergency teams to support affected communities, providing life-saving assistance in some of the hardest-hit areas.Rescue amid the destructionIn the city of Salmas, in West Azerbaijan province, Iranian Red Crescent Society rescuers worked alongside the Fire Department after reports that someone was trapped beneath rubble following an attack.Specialized search and rescue teams carefully worked through the debris, eventually locating the person alive. The survivor was safely extracted and transferred for medical treatment.It is one of thousands of rescues carried out by IRCS teams since the escalation began, including children pulled from collapsed buildings and families reached in the immediate aftermath of attacks.A nationwide humanitarian responseFrom the earliest moments of the escalation, the Iranian Red Crescent Society mobilized at scale.Today, it remains the primary humanitarian actor in the country, with 529 branches activated across all 31 provinces and operations reaching 197 cities. Around 100,000 responders, including volunteers, medical teams and rescue personnel, are working around the clock to support affected communities.Search and rescue teams, ambulances, clinics, pharmacies and logistics units are all engaged in delivering life-saving assistance. So far, more than 3,500 people have been rescued from affected areas.At the same time, the response extends beyond immediate physical needs. Through a nationwide hotline, the Iranian Red Crescent has provided psychological and social support to people in distress, receiving more than 100,000 calls from across the country.In West Azerbaijan province, where families displaced by the hostilities have been relocated to emergency shelters, psychosocial support teams are present on site, with a particular focus on supporting children and families as they cope with trauma, fear and loss.Pressure, danger and lossDespite the scale of the response, the operating environment remains extremely challenging.Eighteen IRCS centres have been struck, and nearly 100 ambulances have been damaged or destroyed — critical assets in a context where they often represent the only chance of survival for those injured.Relief workers themselves have not been spared. Three IRCS members have been killed while carrying out their humanitarian duties, includingSomayeh Mir Abu Es’haq, who lost her life during an attack while on duty in Isfahan Province, andHamidreza Jahanbakhsh, who was killed earlier during a search and rescue operation,and Alireza Sohbatloo, who was killed in an attack while providing services at a Red Crescent clinic in Zanjan. As of 1 April 2026, at least 17 other colleagues have been injured while in the line of duty since the escalation began.For many responders, these challenges are not only operational, but deeply personal.In Qom, an IRCS first responder was confronted with the devastating reality of recovering his aunt and her husband from beneath the rubble, alongside a young child.Such moments reflect a broader truth. Many responders are not only witnessing tragedy, they are living it.It is a stark reminder of the burden carried by humanitarian workers, continuing to save lives under immense pressure, even while grieving their own loved ones.Continuing despite the challengesDespite the immense challenges, support continues to come from across the country, both through organized response efforts and individual acts of solidarity.A young barber, Alireza Kazemi, also known as Kenzo, has been volunteering his services to Iranian Red Crescent Society rescuers, offering haircuts to help lift morale during long and demanding shifts.“I wanted them and their families to feel a bit better despite these conditions. I worked from 1:45 PM yesterday until 5:00 AM this morning to provide this service, and we will continue working to reach other areas,” he said.“I was outside Iran, but when the escalation began, I felt the need to come back and provide my services here. I want to help my people in any way I can.”Scaling up support for the responseThe IFRC and its network is supporting the Iranian Red Crescent Society by scaling up critical resources to sustain the response.An initial allocation of 1.5 million Swiss francs from the IFRC’s Disaster Response Emergency Fund (DREF) has enabled the rapid procurement of essential medical supplies and protective equipment for frontline responders.In addition, a 40 million Swiss franc Emergency Appeal has been launched to support up to 5 million people affected by the crisis. Through this appeal, the IFRC is providing operational support and facilitating international procurement and delivery of critical relief items.You can support the Iranian Red Crescent Society’s response and help reach more people in need by contributing to the IFRC Emergency Appealhere.

Statement: IFRC appalled by the killing of one Iranian Red Crescent colleague

Tehran/Beirut/Geneva, 15 March 2026: The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) is appalled by the death of Hamidreza Jahanbakhsh, a staff member of the Iranian Red Crescent Society (IRCS) from Isfahan Province, who was killed during a search and rescue operation in Tiran-o-Korun, Isfahan Province, on 8 March.Hamidreza Jahanbakhsh lost his life while carrying out his humanitarian duty to assist people affected by the ongoing hostilities. The IFRC expresses its sincere condolences to his family, loved ones, and all IRCS colleagues. Since the outbreak of the conflict, several other IRCS staff and volunteers have also sustained injuries while carrying out their duties.The Red Crescent emblem is asymbol of protection, humanity, neutrality, and hope. Yet too often, our volunteers and staff are killed while performing life-saving work. This is unacceptable.We stand in solidarity with the Iranian Red Crescent Society and all humanitarian workers providing life-saving assistance in difficult and often dangerous conditions.The safety and protection of humanitarian personnel, as well as respect forthe Red Crescent emblem, are essential to ensure the continued delivery of impartial, life-saving assistance to people in need.Once again, our network is mourning the loss of a colleague. Any attack on humanitarians is unacceptable and must be condemned. We will never stop asking for the protection of humanitarian teams: this is a moral and legal obligation.Since the start of the year, seven members of the IFRC network have passed away while on duty.For more information: [email protected] In Beirut:Mey Al Sayegh, +961 761 744 68   In Geneva:Tommaso Della Longa, +41 79 708 4367

IFRC launches CHF 40 million Emergency Appeal to support Iranian Red Crescent response

Tehran/Beirut/Geneva, 10 March 2026 - The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) has launched a CHF 40 million Emergency Appeal to scale up the vital work of the Iranian Red Crescent Society (IRCS), as it responds to sharply growing humanitarian needs resulting from the ongoing hostilities.The appeal will support five million people across 30 affected provinces over the next 16 months, prioritising those directly affected by hostilities, damage to infrastructure and disruptions to essential services. Across the country, communities are facing growing humanitarian needs related to health care, shelter, water and sanitation, and mental health and psychosocial support.“With humanitarian needs growing sharply with every passing day, this Emergency Appeal will help scale up lifesaving assistance and get support to those most affected,” said Maria Martinez, IFRC Head of Delegation in Iran. “The Iranian Red Crescent Society immediately mobilised its network of staff and volunteers to respond to communities affected by the hostilities. This work on the ground by the Iranian Red Crescent Society and the IFRC is vital to saving lives – every moment counts.”The Iranian Red Crescent Society has been responding to the crisis since hostilities escalated on February 28. Currently, 529 branches are engaged in response operations across 30 affected provinces and 197 cities. More than 2,100 response teams and over 6,500 staff and volunteers have been deployed to support communities.Emergency teams are engaged in search and rescue operations, emergency medical assistance and community outreach. The Iranian Red Crescent Society’s ‘4030’ nationwide phone hotline has also received thousands of calls, providing mental health and psychosocial support to people affected by the crisis.Through this Emergency Appeal, the IFRC will support the Iranian Red Crescent Society to scale up humanitarian assistance in key areas including emergency shelter support, relief items and household supplies, health services, water and sanitation support, and community-based mental health and psychosocial services. The response will also strengthen search and rescue capacity, emergency medical services and preparedness for potential displacement of people from their homes.IFRC has already allocated CHF 1.5 million from its Disaster Response Emergency Fund (DREF) to support immediate lifesaving activities and operational readiness while international support is mobilised through the Emergency Appeal. IFRC calls on governments, donors and partners to urgently support this appeal to ensure that humanitarian assistance reaches communities affected by the crisis.For more information or to request an interview, please contact:[email protected]:Tommaso Della Longa,+41 79 708 4367Scott Craig, +41 76 370 3575In Beirut: Mey El Sayegh, +961 03 229 352

Iran: Complex Emergency 2026

IFRC is working with local teams affected by the recent escalation of hostilities in Middle East

Geneva, 28 February 2026 – The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) is following closely and is deeply concerned about the recent escalation of hostilities in the Middle East. Local teams are on the ground and responding as needs arise.The IFRC is working with the affected National Societies to support a timely humanitarian response as needs rise. The IFRC has activated every level, from global to regional and local, to ensure coordination and readiness to respond, including IFRC’slogistics pipeline andprepositioning of humanitarian goods.In Iran, Iranian Red Crescent Society (IRCS) has mobilized its network of volunteers, with logistics units, medical services, rapid response teams, search and rescue and pharmacies across the country to deliver essential humanitarian services and support people affected by the emergency. This includes deploying responseteamsfollowing an attack on a school in Minab, Hormozgan province.In Israel, Magen David Adom (MDA) has mobilized staff and volunteers across the country. Teams are treating and evacuating affected people to hospitals and conducting transfer operations to safeguard patients in non‑sheltered facilities. Blood drives are underway at secure locations across the country to ensure full operational preparedness for all scenarios.All National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies in the region are on high alert for any possible responses needed.The IFRC calls for the preservation of humanitarian space so humanitarian and medical personnel can operate safely and reach people in need.For more information: [email protected] Geneva: Irina Ruano, +41 79 357 1609 Tommaso Della Longa, +41 79 708 4367

IFRC mourns the killing of one Iranian Red Crescent colleague

Tehran/Beirut/Geneva, 14 January 2026: The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) is deeply saddened by the killing of Amir Ali Latifi, an Iranian Red Crescent Society (IRCS) staff member, and the wounding of five other IRCS colleagues, who were all in the line of duty in Gillan province, on 10 January 2026.The IFRC expresses its sincere condolences to his family, loved ones, and all IRCS colleagues.We stand in solidarity with the Iranian Red Crescent Society and all medical and humanitarian workers providing life-saving assistance during this difficult time. Humanitarian workers must be protected.The Iranian Red Crescent Society is a humanitarian organization and part of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, operating in accordance with the Fundamental Principles of Humanity, Neutrality, Impartiality and Independence.The safety and protection of humanitarian personnel, as well as respect for the Red Cross and Red Crescent emblems, are essential to ensure the continued delivery of impartial, life-saving assistance to people in need.The IFRC is deeply concerned about the consequences of the ongoing unrest on the people of Iran and is closely monitoring the situation in coordination with the Iranian Red Crescent Society.For more information: [email protected] BeirutMey Al Sayegh, +961 761 744 68   In GenevaTommaso Della Longa, +41 79 708 43 67   

World Humanitarian Day: An urgent call to honor, respect and protect those who #ActForHumanity

On a conflict-torn night in Tehran, Morteza Zakeri, head of a relief and rescue team, was dispatched to a residential building struck by airstrikes. He arrived to find devastation – collapsed homes, shattered glass, and streets filled with terrified women and children.“There was no time to pause,” he says. “We began clearing debris immediately. The screams of trapped families pushed us to move faster, despite the constant risk of further collapse.”Yet in the middle of fear and rubble, Zakeri found pride in the courage of his team. “It’s not just duty anymore,” he says. “It’s love. We stand by our people until the very end.”On World Humanitarian Day 2025 (19 August), we unite with humanitarians around the world under the banner #ActForHumanity to honour the courage of people like Morteza who rush toward danger to save lives - often at great personal risk.We also join with others in pledging to further heighten our resolve to ensure humanitarian workers and emergency responders are respected and protected as they carry out their life-saving duties.This year, the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UN OCHA), the lead sponsor of World Humanitarian Day, is directing its fund-raising efforts for the day to the Red Family Fund, which provides support to the families of Red Cross and Red Crescent humanitarian workers who die in the line of duty.Since the beginning of 2024, a total of 50 Red Cross and Red Crescent volunteers and workers have been killed in the line of duty. 18 of those deaths occurred in 2025. Each one of them stood under the protective emblems of the Red Cross, Red Crescent, or Red Crystal – which under international humanitarian law means they must be respected, protected and never become a target.This includes five people from the Iranian Red Crescent Society, whose volunteers and staff responded with extraordinary bravery during a deadly escalation of violence in June 2025.Some of them made the ultimate sacrifice. Others survived, but carry with them the scars, stories, and spirit of what it means to be a humanitarian. In this story, we pay tribute to both: those who gave their lives while helping others, and to those who continue, against all odds, to serve with love, resilience, and act with unwavering humanity.Nima Ahmadi: A lens and a lifelineFor nearly two decades, Nima Ahmadi has served with the Iranian Red Crescent, both as a rescuer and a storyteller. During the 12-day conflict, he embodied both roles.When explosions shook his neighborhood on the first night, Nima rushed to the scene in his own car, first - aid kit in hand. He treated the injured before other responders arrived - and documented the devastation through his camera lens.“I put on my relief uniform and went to the explosion site,”he recalls. “I drove my own car to the location. People had already crowded into the area. I entered the scene as a relief worker. No one had arrived yet to aid; I had my aid kit with me, and I provided first aid to injured people. When emergency services and other rescue agencies arrived, I continued providing support. Alongside the relief work, I was also documenting the scene with photography.”In another neighborhood, he found three children lying in the street, covered in dust. “I was alone. I aided them, then moved on to another area. I didn’t stop - neither providing aid nor reporting and photographing.”Kianoush Fallahi: When a mission turns into mourningKianoush Fallahi, a search and rescue dog trainer, was responding alongside his dog Zhiro in western Tehran. As they began operations, a second wave of airstrikes hit the area.“A powerful explosion rocked the area; Zhiro was shaken by the shockwave. I quickly moved him to safety and tried to continue the operation on my own - but the strikes kept coming. Every time we approached, another blast would follow.”But the cost of service soon became personal. As he approached an Iranian Red Crescent ambulance to greet fellow responders, a strike hit.“As I was leaving the Doukhouheh area, my colleague Mojtaba Maleki and another colleague were standing near an ambulance parked along the highway. I walked over to greet them, but seconds later, that same ambulance was struck.“I was thrown by the blast. When I got up, I couldn’t find my colleague Mojtaba. Someone told me he had been killed. I just stood there and wept.”Honouring the fallen: A call to protect those who protect othersThe death of Mojtaba Maleki was not an isolated tragedy. He was one of five Iranian Red Crescent staff and volunteers who lost their lives during the recent escalation of violence - each of them killed while fulfilling their humanitarian duty to protect and save others.On 13 June, Mehdi Zartaji Saray, a staff member of the IRCS rescue team, was killed in East Azerbaijan province while responding to wounded civilians.On 14 June, Yaser Zivari, a volunteer firefighter and rescuer, was seriously injured while providing humanitarian assistance in Hamedan. He succumbed to his injuries eight days later.On 16 June, during a rescue operation in northwest Tehran, an ambulance was struck in an airstrike, killing Mojtaba Maleki and his colleague Amir Hassan Jamshidpour- both dedicated IRCS volunteers.On 22 June, Seyyed Ali Akbar Mir Mohammadi, a volunteer offering humanitarian aid in Isfahan, was killed during an attack.These five lives - cut short while helping others - represent the deepest cost of humanitarian service. They were not carrying weapons. They carried stretchers, medical kits and hope.On World Humanitarian Day 2025, we remember these five brave people, and countless others across the world, who gave their lives in service to humanity. We hopestand with us to protect humanity; our call is urgent and clear:Protect humanitarian workers.Respect humanitarian emblems.No one should ever die while saving lives.Learn how you can support those who #ActForHumanity:Stand with us to protect humanityHonor the fallen: visit the IFRC In Memoriam pageSupport the Red Family FundMake a donation to the Red Family Fund

Afghanistan population movement: IFRC sounds alarm on severe funding gap 

Kabul/Kuala Lumpur/Geneva, 21 July, 2025 - The IFRC is deeply concerned about the future of people living in and returning to Afghanistan, a country that is already facing multiple, overlapping crises.“If the international community doesn’t step up now, communities in Afghanistan will be overwhelmed by the sheer number of people returning,” said Sami Fakhouri, Head of Delegation, IFRC Afghanistan.More than 2.6 million people have returned from Pakistan and Iran, according to UNHCR data, arriving in a country they must now call home - often with nothing to rebuild their lives.“We’re already having to make tough choices, like whether we have enough funding to continue providing even the most basic support, such as food at the borders for those returning. Right now, only 10 percent of the required funding has been secured,” added Fakhouri.Together with the Afghan Red Crescent Society (ARCS) and Red Cross Red Crescent Movement partners, the IFRC aims to shift its focus toward the longer-term resettlement and recovery of returnees.Support at the crossing pointsAt border crossing points, ARCS is supporting returnees with essential provisions including food, clean drinking water, and vital health services to help them withstand extreme heat. Each day, ARCS distributes over 6,000 hot meals at Islam Qala and 500 at Milak in Nimruz province.Mobile health teams provide outpatient care, while mental health teams offer psychological first aid and counselling. A cash-for-work programme also supports hygiene in camps and provides short-term income.Since April, more than 226,000 people have received support from the ARCS and Red Cross Red Crescent Movement partners. But with limited resources and more people arriving every day, the pressure on the ARCS, IFRC, and partners is growing rapidly. Without more funding, even basic services—like meals at the border—may have to stop. Urgent support is needed to sustain this life-saving work.Empowering returneesIn the provinces and communities where returnees settle, the ARCS provides training for both men and women to gradually rebuild their lives and better prepare for the future, for example by learning about agriculture or how to better prepare for natural disasters like flash floods.Three families who returned from Iran and seven families who crossed from Pakistan have joined the ARCS Marastoon programme, which offers vocational training for vulnerable returnee women across eight provinces over a three-year period. These families are just a few examples among the millions of people now facing the difficult process of reintegration in Afghanistan.The programme equips women with practical skills to strengthen self-reliance and create income-generating opportunities, helping them rebuild their lives with dignity. This support is especially vital for Afghan women, who continue to face serious barriers to healthcare, education, and personal safety in a context where their rights remain severely restricted.“As millions return to Afghanistan with almost nothing—no homes, no jobs, and no safety net—this is not only a humanitarian emergency but also a test of our long-term commitment to invest in programmes like Marastoon,” says Fakhouri.Action is needed nowThe ARCS has served communities across Afghanistan for decades, supported by more than 26,000 dedicated volunteers and staff. However, without urgent and increased international support, their ability to respond effectively is at risk.More than immediate aid is needed. To help families move from crisis to sustainable recovery, long-term investment in support programmes is essential, empowering people to rebuild their lives with dignity and hope for the future.For more information or to request an interview, please contact: [email protected] visual materials from Islam Qala are available.In Kabul Nicole van Batenburg, +31 6 38217459 (WhatsApp)Muqbel Sayed Eshaq +93 70 733 6040In Kuala Lumpur Lili Chin, +60 16 2340872  In Geneva Hannah Copeland, +41 76 236 9109 

IFRC mourns the killing of five Iranian Red Crescent colleagues

The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) is deeply saddened by the killing of five staff and volunteers of the Iranian Red Crescent Society (IRCS), while on duty, during the recent escalation of the conflict. Humanitarian workers should never lose their lives while saving people in need.The IFRC previously announced these deaths on social media but is now able to share further details on the incidents.On 13 June, Mehdi Zartaji Saray, an IRCS staff rescue team member, was killed while deployed with operational teams to provide emergency aid to the wounded in the East Azerbaijan province. On 14 June, Yaser Zivari, a volunteer firefighter and rescuer with IRCS, was wounded while providing humanitarian assistance in Asadabad, Hamedan. He passed away on 22 June.On 16 June, an IRCS ambulance conducting rescue operations and providing aid to the wounded in the Shahid Bagheri district in northwest Tehran was hit by an airstrike. Two IRCS staff members – Mojtaba Maleki and Amir Hassan Jamshidpour – were killed.On 22 June, Seyyed Ali Akbar Mir Mohammadi, an IRCS volunteer, was assisting people in need in the city of Isfahan when he was trapped as a building collapsed in an attack. The IFRC extends its deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of each of the deceased, and to all IRCS colleagues.In the first six months of this year, 15 of our IFRC network volunteers and staff were killed at global level while performing their humanitarian duties. Their deaths are a tragic reminder of the increasing risks faced by humanitarian workers around the world. Humanitarian workers are protected under international humanitarian law. The Red Cross, Red Crescent, and Red Crystal emblems are symbols of neutrality, impartiality, and humanity. They must be respected and protected at all times.We stand in sorrow and solidarity with the Iranian Red Crescent Society. We urgently reiterate our call: respect and protect humanitarian staff and volunteers. For more information, please contact: [email protected]

IFRC calls for increased international support as Afghan population movement from Iran intensifies

Herat/Kuala Lumpur/Geneva, 30 June 2025 - The Islam Qala border crossing in western Afghanistan has seen more than 800,000 people from Afghanistan returning from Iran since January 2025. In June alone, over 137,000 people came through Islam Qala, often arriving exhausted and without adequate food, water, or shelter.With rising temperatures, limited resources, and host communities struggling to cope, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) is calling for urgent support to meet the needs of those arriving.Afghanistan is already facing many difficulties after decades of conflict, economic problems, and disasters such as earthquakes and floods. Alongside the returnees from Iran, more than 1 million people have also come back from Pakistan since late 2023, putting additional pressure on basic services and humanitarian organizations."This issue hasn’t received the attention it deserves," highlights Alexander Matheou, the Regional Director for Asia Pacific at the IFRC, who visited the border this weekend. "These individuals are not just statistics; they are mothers, fathers, children, and families returning to a country that is already facing significant trials. It’s crucial that we treat them with the dignity they deserve and support them as they work to rebuild their lives."A significant number of returnees are individuals who have spent extended periods—some for decades—in Iran or Pakistan. Their decision to return is influenced by the evolving legal landscape affecting them, challenging economic circumstances and heightened regional tensions impacting those countries.At the border, families endure sweltering temperatures often topping 40°C, armed with the few belongings they could manage to pack. They find shade under blankets, while signs of malnutrition are evident in children, and many mothers appear worn down and anxious.The Afghan Red Crescent Society (ARCS), is on-site providing vital assistance. They are offering medical care, clean drinking water, and food to those in need. Their mobile clinics are treating at least 500 patients daily, including pregnant women, children, and the elderly. While serious cases are referred to nearby hospitals, the demand for medical supplies is outpacing availability."Many mothers we talk to are incredibly fatigued, with their primary focus on the well-being of their children”, shares an ARCS nurse.Once registered, families are transported to Herat City. Yet, uncertainty looms over their future. Young individuals who are returning to a homeland they barely know, while their families grapple with finding housing, establishing livelihoods, and educational opportunities.Women and girls face heightened vulnerabilities as they return to a country where their rights are significantly restricted. Access to healthcare, education, and safety remains tenuous."As hundreds of thousands return with almost nothing—lacking homes, jobs, and support—it's essential for governments, donors, and aid organizations to step up and provide greater assistance," Matheou emphasizes."Afghanistan is already under considerable strain. With the numbers of returning individuals increasing daily—and even more anticipated in the near future—this is a crucial time for the global community to unite in support of these families.“The Afghan Red Crescent Society and its partners are doing everything within their power, but the needs are immense. There is an urgent requirement for increased funding, supplies, and long-term support to help these families rebuild their lives with dignity and hope. Together, we can make a difference in their journey towards a more secure and prosperous future.”Spokespeople in Afghanistan and audiovisual material in addition to the below are available upon request.Media professionals can find a collection of audio-visual material through this link.For more information or to request an interview, please contact: [email protected] Kabul:Nicole van Batenburg, +31 6 38217459In Kuala Lumpur:Afrhill Rances, +60 19 271 3641In Geneva:Tommaso Della Longa, +41 79 708 4367 Hannah Copeland, +41 76 236 9109

Islamic Republic of Iran: Red Crescent teams respond to urgent humanitarian needs

During the escalation of hostilities in the international armed conflict between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the State of Israel, the Iranian Red Crescent Society (IRCS) has had their emergency preparedness and response teams on the ground responding to humanitarian needs.In areas impacted by the conflict, Iranian Red Crescent relief teams have been conducting search and rescue operations as they look for people believed to be trapped under the debris of buildings damaged by airstrikes.To date, more than 8,200 relief and rescue personnel have been mobilized to deliver critical services across various regions. These include search and rescue teams, sniffer dog units, assessment teams, and debris removal specialists. IRCS crews have been combing through the debris and using sniffer dogs to rescue people trapped under the rubble. Meanwhile ambulance teams have provided urgent pre-hospital care and medical evacuations to nearby hospitals for people who have been injured.Moreover, psychological support teams and volunteers have been working on the ground to help survivors cope with trauma caused by the recent attacks. Additionally, the national psychological support hotline, now operating 24/7, has received over 72,000 calls, and more than 9,900 individuals have benefited from specialized mental health services.The IRCS Youth Organization’s BAVAR Teams are also actively engaging with affected communities to strengthen preparedness and local resilience through outreach and education.Meanwhile, safety teams have distributed emergency and safety kits and raised awareness about safety protocols that can save lives during missile attacks.The Iranian Red Crescent has also helped more than 1,100 people displaced by the fighting to find emergency accommodations.First responders under fireThe conflict has also led to the deaths of four Iranian Red Crescent emergency responders.To date, four IRCS staff members (Mehdi Zartaji, Mojtaba Maleki, Amir Hassan Jamshidpour and Yaser Zivari)have been killed in the line of duty, providing rescue and relief services in the provinces of Tehran (2), East Azerbaijan (1), and Hamedan (1).Two of those emergency responders were killed while driving an ambulance to assist people wounded in an earlier attack in the Shahid Baqeri Township in Tehran on 16 June 2025.‎ The damaged and badly burnt ambulance has been put on display in Tehran's Haft-e Tir Square as a public memorial to the lost ambulance crew.Update (2 July 2025): The Iranian Red Crescent Society has confirmed the death of another one of its members amid the escalation of hostilities between Israel and Iran. Seyyed Ali Akbar Mir Mohammadi, a volunteer relief worker, was killed in an attack while carrying out his humanitarian duties in Isfahan on 22 June 2025. This brings the total number of IRCS staff and volunteers killed during the conflict to 5.In addition, the Iranian Red Crescent says that more than two dozen aid workers were injured during the attacks and are currently unable to continue their relief efforts. IRCS ambulances, helicopters and buildings have also been damaged, according to the National Society.Humanitarian response continuesDespite these challenging conditions, the humanitarian response continues. Damaged infrastructure, blockades, and unsafe roads have hindered aid delivery and complicated coordination, especially given restrictions on regional flights.The presence of unexploded ordnance and other explosive remnants of war adds further danger for both civilians and aid workers, who are often operating in densely affected neighborhoods.Despite these grave challenges, the Iranian Red Crescent remains steadfast in its mission, delivering life-saving support and solidarity to communities in need.Their work is being supported in part by a one million Swiss Franc allocation from the IFRC’s Disaster Response Emergency Fund (IFRC-DREF), to provide immediate life-saving assistance to 200,000 people affected by the complex emergency.This funding directly supports the Iranian Red Crescent's coordinated search and rescue, emergency health services, and psychosocial support, and contributes to strengthening their overall capacity.

Youth volunteers in Iran plant 100,000 trees to protect people and planet

Iran is highly vulnerable to climate change. In recent years, the country has suffered from both severe flooding and droughts linked to our warming world. In July 2022 alone, flash flooding killed 90 people, destroyed communities, homes, and livelihoods across the country, and left thousands displaced. Local Iranian Red Crescent volunteers are experienced in responding to disasters like these—deploying quickly to provide lifesaving first aid and rescue services, food, water, shelter, health services, and long-term support to recover. But as well as just responding to climate-related disasters, the Iranian Red Crescent Society is increasingly working to prepare for them, and even prevent or reduce their impact on communities. And to do that, they’re working with nature. Specifically, our planet’s superheroes: trees. Trees play a critical role in fighting climate change. Most people know that by absorbing carbon, producing oxygen, providing shade and cooling, and maintaining soil health, trees contribute to the overall health of our planet. But did you also know that trees can also help protect us from weather-related disasters? Trees can: Soak up excess water during floods and prevent, or slow down, run-off Hold rainwater in the ground to reduce damage caused by droughts Protect coastal communities from tidal surges Help stop or slow down avalanches and mud flows Hold down soil to stabilize the ground during earthquakes andlandslides Understanding this power of trees to protect communities, the Iranian Red Crescent Society launched a nation-wide tree-planting campaign earlier this year to help mitigate the impacts of climate change across the country. Together, their youth volunteers planted a staggering 100,000 trees in the space of just 20 minutes. Equipped with shovels, watering cans, bags of soil, and tree saplings, more than 10,000 youth volunteers got to work digging holes and planting trees at an incredible pace— showing unity and positive action in the face of the climate crisis. “Every individual can make a difference, whether it's through volunteering with local organizations, supporting policies that promote sustainability, or making individual lifestyle changes. I encourage volunteers and non-volunteers around the world to come together and act on climate change.” - Movahed Najjar Nahavandi, IRCS youth volunteer from Mazandaran province. Climate change is a complex problem that requires urgent action at the local, national, and global level. But by working together, and by working with nature, we can make a difference and help protect our communities. -- The Iranian Red Crescent Society is not alone in taking climate action. Visit our dedicated nature-based solutions page or check out our Working with Nature to Protect People report to learn how the IFRC network is working with nature to reduce climate change and weather-related disasters. You can also visit our climate-smart disaster risk reduction page for more information on how our network is preventing or minimizing the impact of climate change and other hazards on communities.

Flooding around the world: Red Cross and Red Crescent teams responding

In recent weeks, floods have been hitting communities and making headlines around the world. Let’s take a look at some of the countries dealing with flooding and see how Red Cross and Red Crescent teams are helping people who have been affected. Slovenia Torrential rains over the past couple of weeks have affected two-thirds of Slovenia, prompting the country’s Prime Minister to declare it the ‘biggest natural disaster’ in the country’s history. The floods have killed three people and destroyed bridges, roads and houses - causing an estimated 500 million euros of damage. Volunteers from the Slovenian Red Cross have been delivering food, water and medicine to people affected by the floods – often on foot, since it’s the only way to reach many isolated communities. They’re also accompanying people staying in temporary shelters. The Czech Red Cross, Croatian Red Cross, Hungarian Red Cross and Polish Red Cross have all shown solidarity by sending additional food, water and hygiene items into the country to help with the response. Norway In Norway, Norwegian Red Cross volunteers are helping people affected Storm Hans, which is causing havoc across the south of the country – bringing extreme rain, landslides and floods. Volunteers are assisting with evacuations, running emergency ambulances, delivering food to isolated people and building sandbag flood defences. Many local branches remain on high alert, with more volunteers standing by to support as the situation develops. Sudan With millions reeling from the ongoing conflict in Sudan, communities across White Nile state have also now been impacted by heavy rains and flash floods. Torrents of water swept away and destroyed everything in their path. Families have lost homes and belongings, and many are resorting to sleeping outside in the open air. Shelter and clean water are needed urgently. Sudanese Red Crescent Society volunteers, who have already been responding to people’s needs during the conflict, are assessing the situation closely to provide additional support. China Torrential rains and floods have hit East Asia severely this summer, including areas of north, northeast and southern China. Beijing has seen the largest rainfall experienced in the city in the past 140 years. Disaster relief teams from the Red Cross Society of China are helping people in flood-stricken areas – supporting with clean-up and recovery, as well as distributing household items, quilts, waterproof jackets and more. Philippines In the Philippines, Typhoons Doksuri and Khanun (known locally as Egay and Falcon) have brought devastating floods. An estimated 313,000 people have been displaced by Doksuri alone, and more than 25 people have sadly lost their lives. Philippine Red Cross volunteers have been bringing relief supplies, meals, medical assistance and psychosocial support to affected communities. Afghanistan Flash floods and heavy rainfall have caused loss of life, injuries and severe damage to hundreds of households in Afghanistan – a country already experiencing complex humanitarian crises. Afghan Red Crescent and IFRC emergency teams are providing urgent relief – including blankets, jerry cans, tarpaulins and shelter kits. And mobile health teams are bringing medical services to remote communities. Iran In Iran, Iranian Red Crescent Society teams have been responding to flooding in Sistan Balochistan, North Khorasan and West Azerbaijan provinces – deploying 35 response teams and providing support to hundreds of people. Volunteer teams have been rescuing people stranded in the flood waters, setting up temporary shelters, and providing essential items. Honduras In western Honduras, localized flooding caused by rainstorms hit the town of Copan Ruinas – damaging homes and local businesses. The local Honduran Red Cross branch responded quickly to distribute relief items to local people and help clear up debris and fallen trees. -- Thank you to all our National Societies for supporting communities affected by floods in recent weeks. If you'd like to learn more about floods and how you can prepare, click here.

Iran: Drought

Iran has been suffering from unprecedented and widespread drought since July 2021. Alack of safe and sufficient water supply for drinking, hygiene, agriculture, animal farming and electrical power is having a devastating and increasingly unsustainable strain on people's health and income. Through this emergency appeal, the IFRC is supporting the Iranian Red Crescent to scale up its humanitarian response, targeting 800,000 people with water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH), health, livelihoods, cash and protection assistance.

Red Cross Red Crescent reaching 1.5 million people on the move in MENA, yet millions are left without support

Beirut, 16 December 2021 – Red Cross and Red Crescent National Societies are reaching more than 1.5 million migrants, refugees and internally displaced people (IDPs) in the Middle East and North Africa, yet the number of people on the move left without essential support is colossal, a report by the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) has found. Ahead of International Migrants Day on 18 December, the IFRC is calling for a stronger commitment to support people on the move during their journey, not only once they have managed to reach their planned destination – if they ever do. Fabrizio Anzolini, Migration Regional Advisor for IFRC MENA, said: “Countless migrants face inhumane conditions along their way, including violence, lack of food, shelter and access to health services. Climate change and conflicts are only expected to accelerate the number of people migrating out of the region in the coming months and years. We need to act right now on the routes and advocating for durable solutions.” The region, with more than 40 million migrants and 14 million internally displaced people, has some of the world’s longest protracted conflicts, combined with frequent natural disasters, man-made crises and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Regional hotspots include the population movement from Afghanistan to Iran, the migration flows from Morocco, Tunisia and Libya to Europe, the extensive number of internally displaced persons in Syria, as well as the route from the Horn of Africa to Yemen, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and other Gulf states. Rania Ahmed, IFRC MENA Deputy Regional Director, said: “Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies are reaching more than 1.5 million migrants and displaced people in the Middle East and North Africa, but it is not enough. We need bigger investment and greater long-term commitment to address their plight. We need to mobilize all efforts and resources to ensure people on the move receive humanitarian assistance and protection. Migrants and displaced populations are intensely vulnerable and must be included in COVID-19 prevention, response, and recovery plans. We urge governments to ensure that people on the move have equal access to vaccinations, health care and basic services.” With the engagement of the IFRC, Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies in the MENA region are on the frontline attempting to cover the enormous gap between people’s needs and the support that is available for them. Red Cross and Red Crescent teams provide multidisciplinary assistance, including health services, livelihood support, protection for children and victims of violence, mental health, and psychosocial support, as well as cash assistance. These support services are also widely available to host communities, leaving no one behind. Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies remain committed to continue responding to the needs of migrants and displaced people as well as advocating for the support that they need at country, regional and global levels through evidence-based humanitarian diplomacy. However, their continued activities are hampered by shrinking funding. In addition, access to migrants is often limited, especially in conflict zones and due to restrictions put in place to curb the COVID-19 pandemic. You can access the full report here: MENA Red Cross and Red Crescent Activities on Migration and Displacement – Snapshot 2021. The survey includes responses from twelve Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies in the Middle East and North Africa. For more information or to arrange an interview, contact: In Geneva: Rana Sidani Cassou, +41 766715751 / +33 675945515, [email protected] In Beirut: Jani Savolainen, +961 70372812 / +358 504667831, [email protected]

IFRC launches emergency appeal to prepare for and respond to population movements from Afghanistan

Geneva, 28 September 2021 – The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) has recently launched a multi-country emergency appeal focused on preparedness and response efforts to population movements from Afghanistan into neighbouring countries and the wider region. Afghanistan faces an alarming humanitarian emergency and a worsening economic crisis, both likely to be further exacerbated by the approaching winter season. Access to banking services has been severely constrained, with cashflow crippled. A rapid deterioration of humanitarian conditions in Afghanistan could result in catastrophic consequences for vulnerable Afghans and could lead to further internal and cross-border displacement. Xavier Castellanos, IFRC Under Secretary General, National Society Development and Operations Coordination, said: “Millions of people in Afghanistan are suffering from compounded crises, such as severe drought, food and water shortages, internal displacement, the COVID-19 pandemic, a fractured health system, limited access to banking services, and restrictive social norms. Winter is approaching and we know it can be harsh. Many Afghans could cross international borders in the coming months. We need to prepare to provide them with protection and humanitarian assistance”. To support Red Cross and Red Crescent National Societies in preparing for and responding to population movements from Afghanistan, the IFRC is appealing to donors with a funding requirement of more than 24 million Swiss francs. This amount would allow IFRC and its National Societies to continue their preparedness efforts to provide humanitarian assistance and protection to around 160,000 people crossing from Afghanistan into neighbouring countries and the wider region, for an initial period of twelve months. Priority countries of the emergency appeal include Iran, Pakistan, and Tajikistan. Other countries in Central Asia could also be involved in preparedness efforts. National Societies in neighbouring countries and the wider region have a long history of providing humanitarian assistance and protection to people from Afghanistan. Building on their technical experience in emergency response, National Societies stand ready to increase support to newly arriving Afghans, including with emergency shelter and essential household items; food; healthcare; water, sanitation, and hygiene; and protection of the most at risk, including women, children, and marginalized groups. The IFRC operational strategy remains flexible and will be constantly adapted based on the evolving situation, as well as people’s most urgent needs. The emergency appeal can be accessed from this webpage:Afghanistan – Regional population movement For more information, contact: In Geneva: Nathalie Perroud, +41 79 538 14 71, [email protected]

Empress Shôken fund 100th distribution announcement

The Empress Shôken Fund is named after Her Majesty the Empress of Japan, who proposed – at the 9th International Conference of the Red Cross – the creation of an international fund to promote relief work in peacetime. It is administered by the Joint Commission of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies and the International Committee of the Red Cross, which maintains close contact with the Japanese Permanent Mission in Geneva, the Japanese Red Cross Society and the Meiji Jingu Research Institute in Japan. The Fund has a total value of over 16 million Swiss francs and supports projects run by National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies to benefit their communities in various ways. The first grant was awarded in 1921, to help five European National Societies fight the spread of tuberculosis. Since then, 169 National Societies have received 14 million Swiss francs. To mark the Fund’s 100th year of awarding grants, a short video was developed to highlight what the Fund stands for and showcase how it has supported National Societies through the years. The imperial family, the Japanese government, the Japanese Red Cross and the Japanese people revere the memory of Her Majesty Empress Shôken, and their enduring regard for the Fund is evident in the regularity of their contributions to it. The grants are usually announced every year on 11 April, the anniversary of her death. This year the announcement is being published earlier due to the weekend. The selection process The Fund received 28 applications in 2021 covering a diverse range of humanitarian projects run by National Societies in every region of the world. This year the Joint Commission agreed to allocate a total of 475,997 Swiss francs to 16 projects in Argentina, the Bahamas, Benin, Costa Rica, Estonia, Georgia, Iran, Kenya, Malawi, Nicaragua, Pakistan, the Philippines, Romania, South Sudan, Timor-Leste and Viet Nam. The projects to be supported in 2021 cover a number of themes, including youth engagement, disaster preparedness, National Society development and health, especially the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. The Fund continues to encourage new and innovative approaches with the potential to generate insights that will benefit the Movement as a whole. The 2021 grants The Argentine Red Cross is taking an innovative approach to talent management using new technologies. It will use the grant to develop a talent-management module to be implemented in 65 branches, enabling the National Society to attract and retain employees and volunteers. The Bahamas Red Cross Society will put the grant towards building staff and volunteers’ capacities and expanding its network on five islands, with a view to implementing community- and ecosystem-based approaches to reducing disaster risk and increasing climate resilience. The Red Cross of Benin seek to help vulnerable women become more autonomous. The grant will support them in developing income-generating activities and building their professional skills. The Costa Rica Red Cross will use the grant to enable communities in the remote Cabécar and Bribri indigenous territories to better manage emergencies, holding workshops on first aid, risk prevention and emergency health care in connection with climate events and health emergencies, including COVID-19. The Estonia Red Cross is working to build competencies in four key areas, including in recruiting, training and retaining volunteers. The funds will support the development of a volunteer database to help effectively manage information, especially against the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic. With widespread COVID-19 transmission in Georgia, the Georgia Red Cross Society is working to help national authorities limit the impact of the pandemic. It will put the grant towards promoting good hygiene and raising awareness of the importance of vaccination. The Red Crescent Society of Islamic Republic of Iran is focused on building local capacity with youth volunteers by boosting small businesses in outreach areas. The grant will be used for training, capacity-building and development in local partner institutions, generating income for community members. The COVID-19 pandemic and related restrictions have affected how the Kenya Red Cross Society does its humanitarian work. The grant will be used to launch an online volunteer platform to encourage and facilitate youth volunteering. The Malawi Red Cross Society must be ready to respond to disasters due to climate variability and climate change. The funds will allow the National Society to establish a pool of trained emergency responders who can swing into action within 72 hours of a disaster. The Nicaraguan Red Cross is working to protect the elderly from COVID-19. The grant will be used in three care homes located in the municipalities of Somoto, Sébaco and Jinotepe to provide medical assistance, prevent and control infections, and promote mental health as a basic element of self-care through training and support sessions and other activities. The Pakistan Red Crescent seeks to improve how it manages blood donations. The funds will enable the National Society to increase the capacity of its blood donor centre and raise awareness of voluntary unpaid blood donation by holding World Blood Donor Day in 2021. The Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) for All project of the Philippine Red Cross aims to develop WASH guidelines and promote them in the community. The grant will be used for training and capacity-building around providing health services in emergencies. In Romania, teenagers in residential centres are vulnerable to sexual and gender-based violence for a number of reasons, including a lack of both psychosocial education and staff trained in dealing with this kind of violence through trauma-informed care. The grant will enable the Red Cross of Romania to reduce the vulnerability of 60 teenagers in residential centres by increasing knowledge and aiding the development of safe relationships. The South Sudan Red Cross is working to encourage young people to adapt to climate change by planting fruit trees. The grant will support this initiative, which aims to reduce the impact of climate change and increase food production. In 2020 the Timor-Leste Red Cross launched an education programme aimed at increasing young people’s knowledge about reproductive health. The funds will be used to expand the programme – already active in five of the National Society’s branches – to the remaining eight branches. The Viet Nam Red Cross aims to further engage with authorities and become more self-sufficient through fundraising. It will use the grant to build its personnel’s capacities by providing training courses on proposal writing, project management and social welfare.

Red Crescent Society of the Islamic Republic of Iran

Iran Red Crescent volunteer saves a two-month-old baby with his first aid skills

Morteza Beigi, the Iranian Red Cross first aid volunteer, recovered a two-month-old baby back to life and became a hero. “I am used to check vital signs of every corpse brought to the cemetery to be washed and prepared for burial. This time, when the body of a two-month-old baby was brought to me, I remembered my two little daughters whom I love very much. I checked the baby's breathing putting my head on his chest and listened. I found out he was still breathing. The baby was alive!” The baby had been transferred to Abdanan city for the funeral. “It was around afternoon when my phone rang and I was asked to wash a dead body of a small baby. I left home to the cemetery. The body of a baby was wrapped in a white and blue blanket. While his family was taking off his clothes, I suddenly looked at his chest. It seemed it was moving,” he continues. Earlier on the day, the medical doctors had diagnosed the cause of death as Congenital insufficiency. Before working at the cemetery, Morteza, 31, used to be a plaster worker. He is also studying law atuniversity while he is working hard for his family. “I had passed the Red Crescent first aid course in the provincial branch many years ago and knew first aid and CPR. The family of the baby was crying and I could not hear his breathing so I put my head on his chest. He was not dead.” The family was told the baby was declared dead already in the morning. “I remembered my two little beloved daughters as well as all the dead bodies brought here recently because of COVID-19. I felt with my blood and flesh how hard it is to lose our loved ones. I consider all human beings to be my loved ones.” After finding out the baby was still alive, Morteza kept him warm with a blanket and started Cardiac massage together with CPR. He continued for ten minutes until the baby started to breathe properly again. Then he called the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) to get further help. This time the story had a happy ending butMorteza tells he has faced also the grim effects of COVID-19 while washing the bodies. He has seen what it does to the people, and since the spring, he has been infected by COVID-19 already twice. Despite that, he says he keeps his mind positive. Every year Iranian Red Crescent Society organizes different trainings from first aid to urban relief and rescue. This year due to the coronavirus pandemic, the organization moved most of the trainings online.