UAE condemns aid convoy attack that killed five in Sudan
The convoy of 15 lorries carrying food to the famine-stricken city of El Fasher came under attack in North Darfur late on Monday. Five were killed and several others injured, said the World Food Programme and Unicef, the two UN agencies involved.
It was unclear who was responsible. El Fasher has been under siege by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces since May last year, and famine conditions have been reported in the city and in nearby displacement camps during Sudan's civil war.
The UAE's Ministry of Foreign Affairs called on both sides in Sudan's war - the army and the RSF - to "respect their obligations" and uphold pledges to protect civilians.
The attack was a "flagrant violation of international humanitarian law", and aid personnel "must be respected and protected", the ministry said. It called for "immediate steps to protect civilians and facilitate the rapid and unhindered access of essential humanitarian aid through all available means."
The convoy had travelled more than 1,800km from the army's wartime capital of Port Sudan, said the agencies involved, in what would have been the UN's first such entry into the city for more than a year. They were "negotiating access" to El Fasher when the attack came.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Zawya
10 minutes ago
- Zawya
Nigerian Government, World Health Organization (WHO) and partners Strengthen Cholera Preparedness nationwide
Abuja, Strengthening Frontline Capacity Nationwide In response to a surge in cholera cases during the 2025 rainy season, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) and World Health Organization (WHO) in collaboration with UNICEF, WaterAid, and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), have launched an initiative to strengthen cholera preparedness and response. Over 150 frontline health workers from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory have been trained to improve early detection, reporting, and treatment of cholera. To ensure impact at the community level, state governments have cascaded these trainings to high-risk areas. In Bauchi State, with support from WaterAid, 40 community-level health workers across 12 high-burden LGAs received targeted training to enhance local response capacity. 'I feel better equipped now to detect cholera symptoms early and take immediate action,' said Yushau Muktari, a Disease Surveillance Officer in Bauchi. 'This training will help us save lives.' Cholera Cases Surge Amid Rainy Season As of 28 July, Nigeria has recorded 4,700 cholera cases and 113 deaths (CFR: 2.4%), with outbreaks concentrated in flood-affected and displaced communities Coordinated Action from Government and Partners 'We're not just responding to outbreaks—we're building systems to prevent the next one,' said Dr Jide Idris, Director General of NCDC. 'With WHO's support and donor contributions, we're enhancing Nigeria's ability to prepare for and respond to cholera more effectively.' WHO's Targeted Support Across States WHO's support includes: • Pre-positioning cholera kits • Strengthening surveillance systems • Deploying rapid response teams • Providing technical support in Zamfara, Adamawa, and Niger states • Donating 7 cholera test kits and medical supplies for 200 patients • Supplying 10,000 sachets of oral rehydration salts for community treatment 'Every cholera death is preventable,' said Ann Fortin, WHO Emergency Preparedness Response Lead in Nigeria. 'To save lives, we must act faster—supporting health workers, improving coordination, and ensuring supplies reach those in need.' A Roadmap to End Cholera by 2030 WHO emphasizes the need for a multi-sectoral, whole-of-government approach aligned with the Global Roadmap to End Cholera by 2030. This includes investing in water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH), strengthening primary healthcare, and securing political and financial commitment. Building Resilience Amid Climate Risks 'The risk of widespread outbreaks is real, especially as climate shocks intensify,' said Dr Alex Gasasira, Acting WHO Country Representative in Nigeria. 'Thanks to the Government of Japan's timely support, Nigeria is better positioned to protect its most vulnerable.' WHO remains committed to supporting Nigeria in achieving its cholera control targets and safeguarding public health. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of World Health Organization (WHO) - Nigeria.
Khaleej Times
4 hours ago
- Khaleej Times
UAE: For heart attack recovery, check for anxiety, depression symptoms, say doctors
When someone survives a heart attack, the immediate focus tends to be on the physical crisis, the blocked artery, the stent, and the electrocardiogram (ECG). But experts say it's not just about the artery; it's about more than heart health. Recovery extends beyond repairing the heart muscle. It often involves navigating a wave of emotional aftershocks: fear, anxiety, vulnerability, and sometimes a profound identity crisis. Doctors emphasize that healing is not a linear path — it's a complex and ongoing journey that affects the mind, emotions, and relationships. Empathy helps healing 'Healing the heart involves far more than restoring blood flow. It also means helping patients deal with fear, anxiety, and often a profound sense of vulnerability,' said Dr Shady Habboush, Consultant Interventional Cardiologist at Saudi German Hospital, Dubai. Dr Habboush believes that effective healing starts with listening. Many patients don't volunteer that they feel anxious or depressed — unless someone asks. 'Simple screening tools like the PHQ‑2 for depression or GAD‑7 for anxiety during follow-up visits or cardiac rehab can be used. But beyond the forms, paying attention to what they're not saying — silence, hesitation, or the subtle shift in tone when they talk about the future — these are all emotional red flags," Dr Habboush said. A team effort toward recovery Emotional support plays a critical role in the healing process. Dr Habboush encourages involving family members as much as possible — both for educational purposes and for day-to-day motivation. 'A supportive spouse, a caring son or daughter — these people are often the ones making meals, managing medications, or encouraging walks when motivation is low," he said. Experts advised not to wait until signs of more profound emotional distress emerge. 'It's recommended that doctors refer patients to mental health professionals or cardiac support groups. Suppose they see signs of clinical depression, anxiety, or fear of recurrence. In that case, it's better not to hesitate to involve a psychologist,' he added. The invisible wound Dr Rahul Chaudhary, Interventional Cardiologist and Head of Department at International Modern Hospital Dubai, speaks of what he calls 'the invisible wound'. 'There's the anxiety that lingers long after the ECG normalizes. Some patients avoid physical activity entirely, fearing it might 'trigger' another attack. Others downplay their condition and resist follow-up, as if acknowledging the disease gives it power," Dr Chaudhary said. He explained that patients who were previously healthy and active may struggle to come to terms with their new reality. 'Suddenly, they go from being a provider, a leader, or an active individual to someone who feels fragile and uncertain.' For these individuals, lifestyle changes can feel overwhelming. 'One-size-fits-all advice rarely works. We have to acknowledge that lifestyle changes after a heart attack aren't minor tweaks — they are, for many, a full paradigm shift. People are often overwhelmed because they're given a list: stop smoking, walk more, take five medications, avoid stress, eat differently — all while processing a life-threatening event," he said. Essentials of recovery Dr Srinivasan Kandasamy, Specialist Cardiologist at Aster Hospital Qusais, outlines the core changes that must be made in the aftermath of a heart attack. 'Following a heart attack, the most critical lifestyle changes include quitting smoking, adopting a heart-healthy diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and maintaining a healthy weight — all while adhering strictly to prescribed medications.' He advised that most patients should avoid strenuous activity for four to six weeks. However, many can resume their regular daily routines within one to two weeks, depending on their recovery. When it comes to diet and exercise, he recommends a balanced, sustainable approach: "Diet recommendations focus on whole grains, lean proteins, healthy fats such as those found in nuts and PUFA oils, and minimizing sugary foods and beverages. Regular aerobic exercise — like brisk walking for 30 to 40 minutes, three to four times a week — is encouraged.' For smoking cessation, Dr Kandasamy emphasizes behavioural strategies, medication when needed, and identifying personal triggers. Long-term adherence, he says, depends on consistency, education, and support. 'Cardiac rehabilitation programs help assess and individualize a patient's functional capacity. They enhance cardiovascular fitness, provide psychological support, and help modify cardiac risk factors. While not mandatory for all, these programmes are highly recommended for most patients," he said.
Emirates 24/7
4 hours ago
- Emirates 24/7
UAE carries out 65th airdrop of aid under 'Birds of Goodness' operation, delivers over 500 tonnes of food aid to Gaza
The UAE continues its humanitarian mission in support of the Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip. Today, the UAE conducted its 65th airdrop of humanitarian aid under the 'Birds of Goodness' initiative, part of Operation Chivalrous Knight 3. The mission was carried out in cooperation with the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, and with the participation of Germany, and Belgium. These operations aim to deliver relief supplies to areas that are difficult to access by land due to the current field conditions. The aid includes various essential food items and emergency humanitarian supplies. With today's operation, the total amount of airdropped aid has reached over 3,862 tonnes, directed toward supporting Palestinian communities in the most affected and vulnerable areas across the Gaza Strip. While aircraft flew overhead, convoys moved on the ground. Today, the UAE delivered 21 trucks loaded with more than 500 tonnes of food aid through the crossings, a move that reflects the expanding scope of the UAE's air and land support for Gaza. The UAE reaffirmed its commitment to working in coordination with regional and international partners to ensure the sustained delivery of aid to those in need in Gaza, through air, land, and sea, reflecting its deep-rooted humanitarian principles and its global leadership in relief and aid efforts. Follow Emirates 24|7 on Google News.
