"Since unfounded criticism against the ICRC’s reaction to the tragic event continues, the Head of the ICRC’s Regional Delegation in Moscow, Mr Magne Barth, reiterates … that the attack on the Russian Military Hospital in Aleppo on 5 December 2016 is tragic and unacceptable: the loss of life in this attack is tragic, and we extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of those who lost their lives, as well as those who were injured," the statement reads.
Barth emphasized that medical workers must imperatively be respected and protected, and it applies universally, no matter who runs the hospital and no matter where the hospital is.
"The ICRC works closely with Russian forces on the ground in Syria. The ICRC is committed to its constructive relationship with the Russian Federation and keen to continue working together for the provision of humanitarian assistance and promotion of humanitarian values," Barth added.
The Russian Foreign Ministry issued a statement on the attack, drawing attention to the lack of condemnation from the Western countries.
Moscow believes that the attack on the Russian facility was a planned campaign, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said on Tuesday.
On December 6, within 24 hours after the attack, the ICRC condemned it and presented its condolences to the families of the victims. Within minutes of the attack, the Head of the ICRC Delegation in Damascus was on site and presented ICRC’s condolences on the spot to the commander of the Russian forces, according to the statement of the delegation in Moscow.
