TEHRAN –The Iranian Red Crescent Society (IRCS) is recognized as one of the five prominent societies worldwide thanks to its wide range of activities and great achievements both nationally and internationally, Pirhossein Kolivand, the head of the IRCS, has said.

He made the remarks on Tuesday, on the occasion of the World Red Cross Day which is celebrated on May 8.

The day celebrates the spirit of humanitarianism and recognizes the individuals who make a difference in their communities.

In Iran the event is celebrated from May 8 to 13  through holding different programs.

The week-long event kicks off with an exhibition showcasing achievements of the IRCS and a blood donation campaign, according to the IRCS website.

The event also is a good opportunity to honor the rescuers who have sacrificed their lives while providing comfort to people in need in different humanitarian missions, Kolivand said.

He highlighted the capabilities, dedication, and selflessness of the IRCS women, who work hard in different sectors.

The official went on to elaborate measures to boost the IRCS effectiveness.

A total of 300 ambulances and 600 rescue vehicles have been purchased. It is planned to add 1,500 more rescue vehicles to the IRCS fleet, Kolivand stated.

Equipping mountain rescue bases, providing insurance for rescuers, and increasing their incomes were among the other measures to enhance the services.

“The Iranian Red Crescent Society has also been active and successful in international missions like helping earthquake victims in Syria and Turkey which made the organization receive the Turkish government's award for its sacrifice and help,” he further noted.

The official attributed the organization’s achievements to the unwavering dedication of volunteers, whose number has already reached 3 million.

Initiatives to develop and empower Crescent houses in remote, deprived areas and enhance prevention and education programs are other parts of the society’s effort to expand its services.

In this regard, some programs and maneuvers are put on the agenda to be conducted during the week, Kolivand noted.

The IRCS offers public education and relief services courses in universities, schools, seminaries, and barracks to improve the whole society’s resilient in the face of disasters.

Health, treatment, and rehabilitation are another part of the IRCS activities, the IRCS hospitals, pharmacies, and clinics meet the medical and therapeutic needs of thousands of citizens every day.

The IRCS medical centers abroad are reputable worldwide. Soon, the Red Crescent Medical Center will be opened in Tajikistan

As a humanitarian organization, the IRCS is trying to alleviate the suffering of the people involved in accidents, emergencies, and conflicts.

The most important issue these days is to help the victims of the war in Gaza.

So far, with the help of the people, 10,000 tons of health and medical items have been collected and delivered to the people in need in Gaza.

Referring to cooperation with knowledge-based companies, Kolivand said, “Today, collaborations with knowledge-based firms have resulted in advancements in manufacturing orthoses, prostheses, artificial organs, and new medications, with plans to extend cooperation to rescue and relief efforts as well.

**** Iran is IFRC’s strongest member in region

In July 2023, Hossam Elsharkawi, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) Regional Director for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), referred to Iran as the strongest member in the region.

“Among the 192 national Red Crescent and Red Cross societies around the world, the Red Crescent of the Islamic Republic of Iran has always been one of the most important and strongest societies and a reliable member of the Federation.”

The quick and effective presence of the Iranian Red Crescent Society in the rescue operations and then providing relief to earthquake victims in Turkey and Syria last winter shows the good preparedness of the IRCS in response to natural disasters, the IFRC official highlighted.

*****World Red Cross Day

Every year on May 8, people around the world come together to celebrate World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day.

It is a day to pay tribute to the millions of volunteers and staff working alongside people in need of protection, assistance, healthcare, social aid, and solidarity.

This special day is all about appreciating the important ideas behind the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement.

MT/MG