In a recent meeting in Tehran, the Iranian Red Crescent Society (IRCS) and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) discussed enhancing collaboration to provide vital medical and rehabilitation services in underserved areas of Iran. ICRC representative Vincent Cassard stressed the importance of preventing disabilities and expanding psychosocial support. The IRCS, with its 270,000 personnel, is committed to improving access to healthcare. A joint secretariat for rehabilitation services was established, aiming to streamline efforts and promote international cooperation. Both organizations focus on addressing the pressing needs of individuals with disabilities, enhancing the overall healthcare system in Iran.
Iran’s Welfare Organization has reported a significant rise in the national disability rate, with approximately 11.5% of the population—around 9.5 million individuals—affected as of 2024. This increase, highlighted by Javad Hosseini, follows the National Disability Epidemiology Survey and marks a dramatic shift from the 1.3% reported in 2011. The rise is attributed to various factors, including road accidents, an aging population, and the discontinuation of prenatal screening programs. Experts stress the urgent need for better data collection, public awareness campaigns, and policy reforms to address the growing demand for disability services and support in Iran.
The humanitarian crisis in Gaza has prompted urgent calls for increased international cooperation to deliver aid. The Iranian Red Crescent Society (IRCS) and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) emphasize the need for unimpeded humanitarian assistance. IRCS head Pirhossein Kolivand highlighted the dire conditions, with over two million displaced and critical medical needs unmet. ICRC’s Nicolas Von Arx noted ongoing challenges, including targeted attacks on hospitals. Kolivand urged prompt action to address starvation and potential war crimes, advocating for enhanced humanitarian diplomacy. Immediate, coordinated efforts are essential to alleviate the suffering of those in Gaza.
The exhibition ‘Iranian Women, Unwritten Stories’ launched in Tehran to celebrate the achievements of Iranian women, showcasing their contributions across various sectors. Vice President Zahra Behrouz-Azar highlighted advancements such as improved maternal health, increased female representation in medicine, and narrowed educational gender gaps. Women now account for significant roles in publishing, media, and entrepreneurship, with 12,000 companies founded by women. Behrouz-Azar noted the growing political presence of women and acknowledged their accomplishments in sports. President Masoud Pezeshkian emphasized the importance of women’s equality for national progress and called for increased opportunities and leadership roles for women in society.
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Iran is grappling with a severe crisis marked by rising poverty and hunger, prompting Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei to urge the government, led by Masoud Pezeshkian, to ensure food security. In a troubling response, Vice President Mohammad Reza Aref has enlisted the military, specifically the Etka Organization, to manage food supply, indicating a shift towards militarizing public sustenance. This comes as agricultural systems collapse due to resource degradation, leading to increased malnutrition and food insecurity. Officials admit that nearly 20 million Iranians lack basic necessities, while inflation and food costs soar, reflecting the regime’s failure to address structural economic issues.