Press releases, 08.02.2017

The Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) condemns the attack carried out in Afghanistan which cost the lives of six employees of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). The FDFA extends its condolences to the families of the victims and the ICRC. “It is with a heavy heart that I learned of these tragic deaths. I convey to the families of the victims my deepest sympathy,” said Didier Burkhalter, head of the FDFA, in a message to ICRC President Peter Maurer.

Letters of condolence will be sent to the ICRC and the Afghan authorities by President Doris Leuthard and by Federal Councillor Didier Burkhalter.

The FDFA also calls on those responsible for the attack to unconditionally release two other ICRC staff who were reportedly abducted.

The FDFA reiterates its call on all parties to armed conflicts to respect and protect humanitarian aid workers deployed around the world, whose work is aimed at assisting those in need. Humanitarian aid workers in the field are increasingly coming under violent attack.


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Last update 19.07.2023

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