The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has assessed the humanitarian situation in Afghanistan as critical, stating that last year, it provided health services, food aid, and support programs for farmers in the country.
The committee also emphasized the importance of awareness about the threats posed by unexploded ordnance and landmines.
According to the report, the humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan has been caused by prolonged conflict, economic challenges, and natural disasters.
“People who are struggling should be helped, but we also need to focus on the future to make Afghans self-sufficient so they no longer have to rely on others. We need to create job opportunities and employment for the people, as Afghanistan is an agricultural country, and with minimal resources, we can support many people,” said Mohammad Nabi Afghan, an economic expert.
The ICRC further reported that in the past year, over 964,000 patients received primary healthcare services in 47 Afghan Red Crescent health centers, 65% of whom were women and children. The committee also provided 312,371 doses of vaccines and malnutrition services to 8,788 children suffering from malnutrition.
The report further mentions: “964,259 patients, (65 per cent women and children), received primary health care at 47 health facilities of the Afghan Red Crescent Society (ARCS) that are supported by the ICRC. 215,274 patients were assisted in 7 ICRC-supported physical rehabilitation centres.”
“The services of the International Committee of the Red Cross have undoubtedly been effective in Afghanistan, and this organization needs to attract more aid as Afghanistan is currently facing a crisis in providing health services,” said Seyed Abdullah Ahmadi, a doctor.
Additionally, in 2024, the Red Cross exchanged 155 messages between prisoners and their families and conducted awareness activities about the dangers of unexploded landmines in the country.
“Close communication with government leaders in terms of releasing prisoners and connecting with their families plays an important role. According to the 2024 report of the ICRC, some prisoners have been released and returned to their families,” said Najib-ur-Rahman Shamal, an expert in international relations.
Afghanistan is facing economic crises and natural disasters, which have impacted the humanitarian situation. In this context, aid organizations have been working to provide assistance to those in need.