Statement by EU Commissioner for Humanitarian Aid and Crisis Management Christos Stylianides on the killing of six Red Cross staff in Afghanistan

I strongly condemn the attacks on aid workers of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) working in North-eastern Afghanistan who were shot and killed today while delivering humanitarian aid.

An attack on those who work to help others is an attack on humanity and a grave violation of International Humanitarian Law.

Right now my thoughts are with the families, friends and colleagues of those who have lost loved ones and the two other ICRC colleagues who remain missing.

Today's incident not only highlights the dangers facing humanitarian workers in Afghanistan but also underscores the bravery of all those that continue to work selflessly for the benefit of others.

All parties to the conflict in Afghanistan must ensure that humanitarian organisations have unhindered and safe access to people in need. These people have been suffering the consequences of decades of conflict and natural disasters including the recent avalanches.

The European Union remains committed to provide lifesaving aid in Afghanistan.