ARCO condemns targeting of ERC convoy in Somalia

The General Secretariat of the Arab Red Crescent and Red Cross Organisation, ARCO, has condemned the terrorist blast that targeted Emirates Red Crescent, ERC, convoy in the Somali capital, Mogadishu.

In a statement, the ARCO decried the attack that targeted the convoy while conducting its humanitarian and rescue services that the UAE provides to the Somali people. It also warned about the targeting of humanitarian employees and convoys, who work day and night to respond to the increasing humanitarian needs of those in difficult circumstances.

The ARCO called for ensuring protection for all employees and volunteers of the Red Crescent and Red Cross and other humanitarian organisations to continue their work despite all the challenges and difficulties in areas such as in Palestine, Syria, Yemen, Iraq, Libya, Somalia and South Sudan.

The organisation stressed that the targeting of equipment, employees or paramedics who carry the badge of the Red Crescent or the Red Cross, "represents a blatant violation of international humanitarian law," stressing the need to respect the law and the principles of protecting those working to rescue and offer help to others.

The organisation appreciated the UAE relief efforts towards the Somali people and others to ease their suffering from drought, desertification, famine and conflicts. The move stems from the UAE humanitarian in light of the "Year of Giving."

The ARCO added, "The ERC represents a relief role model in terms of quick response and dealing with pressing needs of refugees in Arab countries, as well as compliance with the principles of the international movement of the Red Cross and Red Crescent."

It also referred to continued UAE government’s position and commitment to its humanitarian stance to carry out the international giving message.