8 May 2026
News Agency:News
IFRC Delegation Visits Areas Affected by U.S.-Israeli Airstrikes in Iran
TEHRAN, 18 April 2026 (IRCS) – A delegation from the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) visited civilian areas that were devastated by U.S. and Israeli airstrikes in Iran.
Following the visit, the delegation met and held talks with Pir Hossein Kolivand, President of the Iranian Red Crescent Society (IRCS). Kolivand stated that the scale of the attacks has caused severe psychological harm and extreme stress among affected families. He added that specialized teams of the Iranian Red Crescent have been standing alongside them, providing psychosocial, medical, and nutritional services to help restore stability to their lives. Referring to the damage to the IRCS relief fleet during the 40‑day war, Kolivand emphasized: “Strengthening humanitarian capacities is one of the main duties of the Federation, and we expect the Federation, in addition to taking clear and firm positions regarding the imposed war against Iran, to mobilize practical international assistance.” He recommended that an urgent conference be convened to review the situation and prepare proposals concerning the Additional Protocols to the Geneva Conventions. He said these proposals should be submitted to the relevant bodies through the IFRC and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). Dr. Kolivand also stressed the need to draft and implement binding legal statements and documents, adding that official positions are expected to firmly uphold humanitarian principles and neutrality. IFRC assist IRCS For his part, Xavier Castellanos, Deputy Secretary General of the IFRC, stated that National Societies should be aware that during the 40‑day war more than 100,000 volunteer aid workers were ready to participate in Iranian Red Crescent relief operations. Addressing IRCS directors, Mr. Castellanos added, “You have a golden Society, and we are proud to learn from your activities.” He further said, “From the moment we arrived in Iran, we have felt that we are among family. Our work in the humanitarian field allows us to understand one another, and I assure you that the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies and National Societies will provide any assistance they can to the Iranian Red Crescent Society.” Castellanos also expressed his sympathy for the killing of Iranian Red Crescent volunteers and aid workers, saying that targeting aid workers in this war is deeply regrettable. Meanwhile, Jorgen Haldorsen, Head of the International Department of the Norwegian Red Cross and a member of the IFRC delegation, said they are proud to cooperate with the Iranian Red Crescent as a partner. He also extended his condolences for the deaths of IRCS volunteers and aid workers during the war.
© 2022 - info@rcs.ir