The ICRC called on Armenia and Azerbaijan to reach a "humanitarian consensus"

Baku/25.07.23/Turan: Despite persistent efforts, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) is currently unable to deliver humanitarian aid to the civilian population through the Lachin corridor or through any other routes, including Aghdam, today's message of the ICRC. The organization calls on relevant decision makers to allow the ICRC to resume its main humanitarian operations in the area.

Tens of thousands of people rely on humanitarian aid reaching them along these routes, the report further says. The civilian population is currently facing a shortage of vital medicines and basic necessities, such as hygiene products and baby products.

Fruits, vegetables and bread are becoming increasingly scarce and expensive, while some other foods such as dairy products, sunflower oil, cereals, fish and chicken are not available. The last time the ICRC was allowed to bring medical supplies and basic foodstuffs into the area was a few weeks ago.

“Our convoys with humanitarian aid are a lifeline for the population in this area. Since these convoys are blocked, we are concerned about the further deterioration of the humanitarian situation. We worry most about those who can't help themselves. Patients and people with chronic diseases, as well as the elderly, the infirm and children are particularly at risk. In order for us to act here, we need the parties to reach a humanitarian consensus. This is life-saving work, and it should be allowed to continue,” said the ICRC's Regional Director for Eurasia, Ariane Bauer.

According to international humanitarian law, the parties must allow and facilitate the rapid and unhindered delivery of humanitarian aid to civilians in need. This includes medicines and essential products.

The work of the ICRC is purely humanitarian in nature. We are encouraged by the fact that over the past few days, the ICRC has been able to evacuate 24 sick patients through the Lachin corridor, ensuring that they receive the necessary medical care. In general, since December 2022, the organization has evacuated more than 600 people in urgent need of medical care. The ICRC continues its bilateral dialogue with the parties and is ready to continue its humanitarian work as soon as such a consensus is found, the statement by ICRC.—06B-