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, , 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, , 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 – and – were killed.

On 22 June, , 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]