Beirut:President Joseph Aoun addressed the 12th Regional Conference of the Red Cross and Red Crescent in the Middle East and North Africa, held in Beirut. He emphasized the importance of protecting humanitarian workers, stating that their safety is a binding obligation under international humanitarian law. The conference was hosted by the Lebanese Red Cross in collaboration with the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies on September 25-26.
According to National news agency - Lebanon, Aoun welcomed delegates to Lebanon, highlighting the Red Cross's role as more than just a humanitarian institution for Lebanese citizens. He painted a picture of ambulances assisting people in danger and volunteers offering help regardless of region, sect, or identity, stressing the vision of a unified Lebanon where human life is prioritized over politics and conflict.
Aoun acknowledged the Lebanese Red Cross's contributions during various crises, including the COVID-19 pandemic, the Beirut port explosion, economic challenges, and ongoing conflicts. He praised the organization's efforts in assisting displaced families, delivering aid to high-risk areas, and coordinating with the Lebanese Army and UNIFIL. He also paid tribute to Red Cross members like Youssef Raymond Assaf and Hassan Ali Badawi, who lost their lives during Israeli attacks, and mentioned that 13 paramedics and volunteers were wounded in the line of duty.
Highlighting international humanitarian law, Aoun stressed that all conflict parties, including Israel, must adhere to the rules protecting medical and humanitarian personnel. He underscored the legal and humanitarian obligations to ensure the safety of paramedics and respect the Red Cross and Red Crescent emblems.
The president noted the extensive services provided by the Lebanese Red Cross, which are not limited to wartime but include emergency medical services, blood services, healthcare, and psychological support to over a million people annually. Aoun commended the organization's public trust, emphasizing that this trust is built on neutrality, competence, and sacrifice.
In his speech to volunteers, Aoun acknowledged their dedication, likening their commitment to the Army's motto of "Honor, Sacrifice, Loyalty." He called for the state to support and strengthen the Red Cross's capabilities and maintain the culture of volunteerism in Lebanon.
Concluding his address, Aoun urged Lebanese citizens and international partners to support the Lebanese Red Cross, praising its enduring humanitarian mission and its contributions to Lebanon.
