Latest news with #KRCS
Arab Times
4 days ago
- Health
- Arab Times
Kuwait Acts on Spillover Fears with Radiation Upgrades
KUWAIT CITY, June 17: National Guard Chief Sheikh Mubarak Humoud Al-Sabah on Tuesday heaped praise on the role and capabilities of the Sheikh Salem Al-Ali Al-Sabah Center for Chemical Defense and Radiological Monitoring, affirming that it is essential in maintaining national security. Sheikh Mubarak Humoud Al-Sabah made the statement when he visited the center, indicating that it is home to cutting-edge equipment and modern tools, which assist in radiation detection and circumvention efforts. He revealed the center relies on specialized devices and innovative techniques, in addition to the competence of its personnel, to identify any radiation sources; subsequently protecting the environment and the nation's security in equal measure. Also, the Chief of General Staff of the Kuwait Army revealed in a press release that they assessed national capabilities in the fields of energy, water and health; and reviewed the readiness of vital sectors to deal with emergencies and disasters. The statement confirmed that the discussions touched on environmental monitoring plans and dealing with air and sea crises, in addition to civil defense plans and mechanisms of support and coordination between the concerned authorities. This meeting is within the framework of enhancing integration between State institutions and raising the level of coordination and preparedness to face potential risks. Chairman of Kuwait Red Crescent Society (KRCS) , Ambassador Khaled Al-Maghames affirmed the full commitment of KRCS to its national and humanitarian role amid the ongoing regional developments. Speaking to Kuwait News Agency (KUNA), Al- Maghames emphasized that KRCS stands at the forefront of the national emergency response efforts of Kuwait, prioritizing the safety and well-being of citizens while working closely with government bodies. 'As part of its plan, KRCS has activated multiple field and logistical measures, including bolstering the readiness of its Rapid Response Teams -- composed of trained volunteers and staff -- ensuring its warehouses are fully stocked with relief supplies and medical items. It is also organizing specialized training programs in first aid, disaster response, and International Humanitarian Law, in cooperation with the Civil Defense,' he added. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs urged Kuwaiti citizens currently in Iran to contact the ministry on the number +965-159 or the Embassy of Kuwait in Tehran on number +98-9919202356 as soon as possible. In a statement on Tuesday, the ministry clarified that this step part of its efforts to facilitate the return of citizens currently in Iran to Kuwait, in line with the emergency plans developed to ensure their security and safety, in coordination with the concerned authorities. Moreover, the GCC Ministerial Council on Monday condemned the Israeli aggression on Iran, which undermined the latter's sovereignty and security and marks a blatant breach of international law and the UN Charter. In a statement issued following its virtual extraordinary meeting -- chaired by Kuwaiti Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdullah Al-Yahya, the council emphasized the need to return to the diplomatic track and reach a ceasefire to maintain regional security and stability. It urged all parties to exert concerted efforts to calm down and take the diplomatic approach as an effective way of settling conflicts and exercising maximum self-restraint in order to spare the region and its people the risks of war. The council also stressed the significant role of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in promoting preventive security and sounding the alarm about the impacts of targeting nuclear facilities due to relevant serious human and environmental perils. It called on the UN Security Council (UNSC) to shoulder its responsibilities by demanding an immediate cessation of this war and de-escalation, considering the serious risks posed to regional and international peace. Furthermore, the GCC Ministerial Council urged continuing US-Iranian negotiations on Tehran's nuclear program with Omani mediation. It also underlined the necessity of compliance with the basics and principles of the UN Charter and international law, good neighborliness, respect of State sovereignty, noninterference in internal affairs and resolution of disputes by peaceful means, rather than the use or threat of force. The council concluded by calling for safeguarding maritime security and safety of waterways in the region and addressing activities that threaten regional and international security and stability, including targeting commercial ships and threatening maritime shipping lanes, international trade and oil facilities in the GCC member countries. In a related development, Egyptian Ambassador to Kuwait Osama Shaltout has affirmed the importance of the joint statement issued by 21 Arab and Islamic countries -- including Egypt and Kuwait -- on the recent military escalation in the region. He pointed out that the statement strongly condemned the Israeli attacks on Iranian territory, considering them a dangerous escalation and a clear violation of international law and the United Nations Charter. He added that Egypt and the countries issuing the statement expressed their deep concern about the repercussions of this escalation on the security and stability of the region, and called for an immediate cessation of hostilities and a return to dialogue and diplomacy as the only means of settling disputes. He also underscored the importance of protecting nuclear facilities subject to International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) safeguards, as stated in the joint statement. He reiterated the call for a Middle East free of weapons of mass destruction without exception, while emphasizing the need to respect freedom of navigation in international waterways and rejecting practices that jeopardize the security of navigation or global trade. He then confirmed the full support of Egypt for Arab and Islamic solidarity in the face of escalation, while praising the positions of sisterly countries, led by Kuwait, in supporting regional stability and joint action. In the meantime, Kuwait's Permanent Representative at International Organizations in Vienna and Chairman of the Gulf Group Ambassador Talal Al-Fassam warned that the conflict spillover in the region will trigger dire consequences on regional and international peace. Al-Fassam gave the warning in a speech he delivered on behalf of the GCC during an emergency session of the IAEA Board of Governors regarding the Israeli aggression on Iran. He condemned the Israeli attacks on Iran, including several nuclear facilities, saying, 'This attack comes at a very sensitive time, as international efforts to resume nuclear negotiations between Iran and the US are intensifying.' He underlined the fact that this could derail the diplomatic process and ignite a wider conflict, which could have a serious impact on regional and international peace. He voiced extreme concern over this serious escalation that will have adverse effects on regional security and stability. He cautioned that such hostilities mark a serious violation of an IAEA member state's sovereignty and a serious precedent that undermines international rules, mainly the principle of respect of a State's sovereignty and preventing the use or threat of force. He also reaffirmed the GCC member countries' unwavering commitment to support regional security and stability, while categorically rejecting any violation of the sovereignty of a State or the targeting of their nuclear facilities under any pretext. The Iran-Israel conflict has shuttered airspace across the Middle East as the two bitter enemies launch attacks and reprisals at one another. The worsening security situation has seen foreigners scramble to evacuate. But with so much travel disruption in the region, it's a tough task. Some governments are using Iran's land borders to get their nationals out. Others are advising their citizens on how to leave voluntarily or stay safe until an official exit plan is in place.
Kuwait Times
06-06-2025
- General
- Kuwait Times
Kuwaiti hajj mission fully prepared as pilgrims reach holy sites
Kuwait mobilizes government and volunteer efforts to support 8,000 pilgrims MAKKAH: The Undersecretary of the Ministry of Islamic Affairs and Head of the Kuwaiti hajj Mission Dr Bader Al-Mutairi, announced on Tuesday that all Kuwaiti pilgrims—estimated at approximately 8,000—have arrived in Saudi Arabia as part of 60 organized hajj convoys. The announcement comes as preparations intensify for the start of the annual pilgrimage. In a statement to the Kuwait News Agency (KUNA), Dr Al-Mutairi said that mission teams from various participating entities are operating at full capacity and are providing services around the clock at the holy sites to ensure the comfort and safety of Kuwaiti pilgrims. He added that preparations at the key pilgrimage sites of Mina, Arafat, and Muzdalifah have been completed in advance, underscoring the mission's goal of facilitating a safe and organized environment for pilgrims to carry out their religious duties. Dr Al-Mutairi urged all Kuwaiti pilgrims to adhere to official guidelines issued by the Saudi authorities and to cooperate with the supervisory and service teams accompanying the Kuwaiti hajj mission. The mission includes several government and NGOs tasked with supporting pilgrims. These include the Ministries of Islamic Affairs, Foreign Affairs, Interior, Information, and Health, along with the General Fire Force, the Public Authority for Food and Nutrition, the Public Authority for Youth, and the Kuwait Red Crescent Society (KRCS). In a related development, KRCS Secretary-General Fahad Al-Mandeel confirmed the organization's participation in this year's hajj mission. KRCS volunteers will provide humanitarian aid, first aid services, and logistical support to pilgrims. Al-Mandeel told KUNA that both male and female volunteers from the society will take part in the mission as part of KRCS's ongoing humanitarian role in serving pilgrims. He highlighted the society's continued collaboration with the Ministry of Islamic Affairs and other official bodies. He also commended the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for its extensive efforts in organizing the hajj season, noting the early preparations, high-quality services, and coordination with international hajj missions, including Kuwait's. According to Al-Mandeel, the KRCS delegation will deliver field medical services in coordination with Kuwaiti medical teams, assist elderly and ill pilgrims, and distribute necessary medical and informational materials. This is part of a broader, pre-planned program aimed at supporting pilgrims throughout the season. He praised the dedication of KRCS volunteers, describing their participation as both a national and humanitarian responsibility. Al-Mandeel concluded by thanking all cooperating entities and expressing hope for a safe and spiritually fulfilling hajj for all pilgrims. — KUNA
Kuwait Times
26-05-2025
- Politics
- Kuwait Times
Kuwait places humanitarian concerns at forefront of its foreign policy
Workshop highlights Kuwait's longstanding role as a leading donor KUWAIT: Chairman of the Kuwait Red Crescent Society (KRCS) Ambassador Khaled Al-Mughamis reaffirmed Kuwait's unwavering commitment to humanitarian causes and its dedication to strengthening partnerships with international organizations in the fields of relief and humanitarian aid. Speaking at the opening of a three-day workshop on international humanitarian law, organized by the KRCS in collaboration with the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), Al-Mughamis highlighted Kuwait's longstanding role as a leading donor and supporter of global relief efforts. 'Kuwait has consistently placed humanitarian concerns at the forefront of its foreign policy,' Al-Mughamis said, underlining the country's eagerness to sustain its humanitarian approach in close cooperation with international bodies, particularly the ICRC. He noted that KRCS, inspired by these values, is committed to delivering aid to vulnerable populations in both times of peace and in the face of crises and disasters, locally and internationally. This, he stressed, is in alignment with the society's fundamental humanitarian principles, which prioritize the protection of human dignity under the most challenging circumstances, especially during armed conflicts. Participants attend the workshop. – KUNA photos Head of the ICRC delegation to the GCC countries, Mamadou Sow International Humanitarian Law Workshop, organized by the Kuwait Red Crescent Society in coordination and cooperation with the International Committee of the Red Cross. Turning to the significance of the workshop, Al-Mughamis described international humanitarian law as a vital framework aimed at mitigating human suffering during warfare and upholding human dignity even in the direst conditions. He emphasized the importance of spreading awareness and understanding of these principles among individuals and institutions to prevent violations and promote respect for human rights. He also praised the ICRC for its pivotal role in advancing international humanitarian law and for its continued support to national societies, including the KRCS, through technical and educational assistance. For his part, Mamadou Sow, Head of the ICRC's Regional Delegation for the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, expressed pride in the enduring partnership with the KRCS. He lauded the society's dedication to promoting and defending the principles of international humanitarian law. 'This workshop is not merely a training event—it is a powerful message of humanity, promoting awareness, self-restraint, and solidarity,' Sow said. He also expressed deep sorrow over the recent tragic events in Gaza, particularly the loss of International Red Cross Movement members in Khan Younis, extending condolences to the victims' families and colleagues. The workshop features in-depth discussions on key topics such as the role of the International Red Cross Movement, the fundamentals of international humanitarian law, the intersection of international law and armed conflict, the work of the International Criminal Court, and the protection of civilians through both Islamic Sharia and international humanitarian standards. Representatives from various Kuwaiti ministries, institutions, and associations are participating in the event, which aims to bolster understanding and implementation of humanitarian law and to reinforce its core values across the region. — KUNA
Kuwait Times
22-05-2025
- Politics
- Kuwait Times
KRCS raises awareness on humanitarian law
KUWAIT: Chairman of the Kuwait Red Crescent Society (KRCS), Ambassador Khaled Al-Mughamis, underscored the vital importance of raising awareness on international humanitarian law (IHL) and its role in mitigating human suffering during armed conflicts. In a statement issued Wednesday, Al-Mughamis announced the Society's preparations to host a specialized workshop on IHL from May 26 to 28, in coordination with the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). The event aims to promote the dissemination of IHL principles and enhance understanding of its humanitarian foundations and applications. Al-Mughamis noted that the workshop will feature a series of expert-led lectures focusing on key aspects of international humanitarian law, particularly those relating to the protection of civilians, the treatment of detainees, the facilitation of humanitarian aid, and the legal framework governing safe access in conflict zones. The agenda will also include discussions on the role of the International Criminal Court. He highlighted the importance of fostering awareness of IHL among young people and professionals in the humanitarian and medical sectors. 'Respecting and implementing the principles of IHL plays a crucial role in reducing violations and alleviating the suffering of affected populations,' he said. The workshop also seeks to familiarize participants with the core humanitarian principles underpinning IHL and its essential legal provisions that guide the conduct of parties during armed conflict. Al-Mughamis pointed out that the program will provide a platform for analyzing legal and practical challenges related to the application of IHL and encourage the dissemination of legal knowledge within local communities. Furthermore, the event will address a range of key topics including an overview of IHL, fundamental principles, the protection of vulnerable groups during conflicts, the role of Red Crescent and Red Cross national societies, and the intersection of IHL with international justice mechanisms. Al-Mughamis affirmed that the workshop aligns with the Society's ongoing commitment to strengthening partnerships with international organizations and reinforcing Kuwait's prominent role in global humanitarian efforts.- KUNA
Arab Times
19-03-2025
- Health
- Arab Times
‘Remember me well in the tougher times'
ONE year ago, during the last Ramadan, five physicians and a senior administrator from the Kuwait Red Crescent Society (KRCS), armed with their expertise, equipment, and aid, took a bold step, and risked their lives to enter the war-torn Gaza Strip and offer support to its people. The team members were uncertain whether they would return to their families safely. In March 2024, Dr. Musaed Rashid Al-Enezi, Dr. Hussein Al-Quwaian, Dr. Faisal Al-Hajri, Dr. Muhammad Jamal, Dr. Muhammad Shamsah, and senior KRCS administrator Abdulrahman Al-Saleh made the decision to enter Gaza under any circumstances, becoming the first Arab or Islamic team to do so. Their mission was driven by their humanitarian duty, the oath they had taken, and their commitment to providing as much medical and food aid as possible to the people of Gaza. They aimed to perform the highest number of surgical operations possible, even under what could be described as the most horrific conditions in the history of warfare. The team was fully aware of the magnitude of risks involved, particularly when confronting a ruthless and immoral enemy, all while war, destruction, serious injuries, death, and hunger were growing increasingly prevalent. The team members spent four dangerous days among the wounded, injured, and those in need, providing whatever medical assistance they could . They accomplished far more than expected, performing numerous surgeries on the cases they were able to reach. They showed the Palestinian resistance fighters, the wounded, and defenseless civilians that their brothers from Kuwait had overcome their own wounds and psychological pain, risked their lives, and entered Palestine to offer much-needed aid. Entering Gaza under those circumstances was a terrifying adventure, and completing the tasks assigned to the team was even riskier. The team was fully aware of what they were about to undertake, as it was akin to a suicide mission, especially with the looming threat of an enemy that had abandoned even the most basic moral principles and mercy. As a result, the team members signed pledges to hold no party accountable for their safety before obtaining entry permits to Gaza from the relevant authorities. The team not only faced the risk of conducting operations under continuous bombardment, but they also succeeded in distributing numerous food baskets and First Aid kits to the residents. They carried out their mission while the sounds of bomb explosions, artillery shells, and buzzing drones deafened their ears. Despite the relentless bombardment day and night, some team members could scarcely believe they had returned from that trip unharmed. In the end, they were all deeply satisfied with what they had accomplished. Meanwhile, some individuals from our nation mocked the Palestinian resistance, and were indifferent to the catastrophe the people of Gaza had suffered . They continued to remind us of their stance from 35 years ago in persistently supporting Israeli positions simply because they had an issue with the Palestinian resistance. I reflected on the events of that great risk, its profound humanitarian significance, and the material, medical, and moral aid it provided to the people of Gaza. I thought of the long and remarkable history of the Kuwait Red Crescent Society (KRCS) and the role of the chairman and members of its last elected Board of Directors. I also recalled the verse composed by the distinguished poet Abu Firas Al-Hamdani: 'My people will remember me well in hard times. The darker the night, the more the full moon is missed'. Meanwhile, I wish the best of luck to the chairman and members of KRCS's new Board of Directors.
