GENEVA

The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) said on Thursday an Iranian Red Crescent Society staffer was killed and five others wounded while on duty in northern Iran, urging greater protection for humanitarian workers.

In a statement, the IFRC said it was "deeply saddened" by the killing of Amir Ali Latifi, a staff member of the Iranian Red Crescent Society, and the wounding of five other colleagues in Gilan province on Saturday.

The federation expressed its condolences to Latifi’s family, loved ones and colleagues, and said it stands in solidarity with the Iranian Red Crescent Society and all medical and humanitarian workers providing life-saving assistance.

"Humanitarian workers must be protected," it added.

The statement stressed that the Iranian Red Crescent Society is a humanitarian organization and part of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, operating in line with the Fundamental Principles of Humanity, Neutrality, Impartiality and Independence.

"The safety and protection of humanitarian personnel, as well as respect for the Red Cross and Red Crescent emblems, are essential to ensure the continued delivery of impartial, life-saving assistance to people in need," it said.

The federation said it is "deeply concerned" about the consequences of the ongoing unrest on the people of Iran and is closely monitoring developments in coordination with the Iranian Red Crescent Society.