Doha: The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) works closely with the State of Qatar to implement humanitarian initiatives in various regions worldwide, said HE ICRC Director-General Pierre Krahenbuhl.

According to Qatar News Agency, in his speech at the opening of the 2025 Global Security Forum, held under the theme "The Impact of Non-State Actors on Global Security," Krahenbuhl emphasized the collaboration between the ICRC and Qatar in efforts such as the release of hostages in the Gaza Strip and Palestinian prisoners in Israeli prisons. The cooperation extends to humanitarian initiatives and confidence-building measures in Ukraine and Russia, including the return of civilians and children to their families.

Krahenbuhl highlighted the joint work linking Qatar's mediation efforts to resolve conflicts with the ICRC's role as a neutral intermediary. This partnership has facilitated access to concerned parties and contributed to building the trust needed to tackle significant regional and global challenges, offering substantial added value.

He also underscored the importance of respecting international humanitarian law during times of war, noting the launch of a global initiative to mobilize political support for these laws. He stated that adherence to international rules and laws clears the way for dialogue and reconciliation, stressing that conflict resolution processes often begin with small humanitarian steps.

Krahenbuhl pointed out the ICRC's extensive presence in conflict environments, where it has provided humanitarian services for the past 160 years. He mentioned that ICRC staff operate in over 100 conflict zones worldwide, undertaking activities such as visiting prisoners of war, reuniting civilians in Ukraine and Russia, providing medical assistance in Sudan and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, searching for missing persons, maintaining water systems for millions of Syrians, and engaging in high-risk humanitarian efforts in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank.