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Kuwait Times
5 days ago
- 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.
Arab Times
16-03-2025
- Politics
- Arab Times
Kuwait Red Crescent and Indian Embassy Discuss Strengthening Humanitarian Ties
KUWAIT CITY, March 16: The Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Kuwait Red Crescent Society (KRCS), Ambassador Khaled Al-Mughamis, received the Ambassador of the Republic of India to Kuwait, Dr. Adarsh Swaika , at the KRCS headquarters. The meeting focused on enhancing bilateral cooperation in humanitarian and relief efforts, reflecting the strong ties between the two nations. Ambassador Al-Mughamis warmly welcomed Ambassador Dr. Adarsh Swaika and his accompanying delegation, praising the longstanding relations between Kuwait and India. He emphasized the KRCS's commitment to strengthening its partnership with India, which aligns with the Society's mission to provide support and assistance to those affected by natural disasters, wars, and conflicts worldwide. Al-Mughamis highlighted Kuwait's enduring humanitarian approach, which extends aid to all those in need, irrespective of race, religion, or gender. He recalled the KRCS's swift response during the 2019 floods in the southern Indian state of Kerala, where the Society provided critical humanitarian aid. Additionally, in 2021, the KRCS sent 25 tons of emergency medical supplies via a Kuwaiti relief plane to support India's efforts in combating the COVID-19 pandemic. During the meeting, the two ambassadors discussed key issues of mutual interest, particularly in the fields of humanitarian and relief work. They explored opportunities to further enhance cooperation between the KRCS and Indian humanitarian organizations. Ambassador Dr. Adarsh Swaika commended the KRCS for its prominent role in global humanitarian and relief efforts, expressing his appreciation for the Society's support to countries affected by natural disasters and humanitarian crises. He affirmed that the meeting addressed several topics aimed at deepening collaboration in the humanitarian field, underscoring the strength of Kuwaiti-Indian relations. Dr. Adarsh Swaika also highlighted the close cooperation between Kuwait and India in various sectors, including political, economic, and commercial fields, and expressed optimism for further strengthening these ties through joint humanitarian initiatives. The meeting concluded with both sides reaffirming their commitment to fostering greater collaboration in addressing global humanitarian challenges and supporting vulnerable communities worldwide.
