The United Arab Emirates’ (UAE) search and rescue team has returned home after a critical mission in Syria to help those affected by the recent earthquake. The Emirati crew members were part of a larger international relief effort in Turkey and Syria following a 6.7 magnitude earthquake that hit on February 6.
The earthquake has resulted in more than 50,000 deaths, with around 6,000 of those fatalities occurring in Syria. The Emirati rescue team played a significant role in providing support and assistance to those affected by the disaster.
Lt Col Hamad Al Kaabi, commander of the search and rescue operation in Syria, expressed his appreciation for the team’s outstanding efforts during the mission. He said that the Emirati crew members had made “exceptional efforts” in the operation.
Operation Gallant Knight 2 in Syria and Turkey involved 134 rescuers, a humanitarian air bridge, 136 flights and 3,772 tonnes of food and medical supplies. Two field hospitals were also opened in Turkey. The rescue operations in both nations enjoyed notable successes in hugely challenging circumstances.
The focus of the relief effort has now shifted towards recovery and rehabilitation. The team will be providing support and training to Syrian teams in using advanced equipment that has been provided to them. This training will help build the capacity of local teams to respond to future disasters and emergencies effectively.
The Emirati team’s return home marks the end of a critical mission that has demonstrated the importance of international cooperation in times of crisis. The UAE’s contribution to the relief effort in Syria is a testament to its commitment to providing humanitarian aid and support to those in need.
The successful mission is also a reminder of the devastating impact that natural disasters can have on people’s lives. It underscores the importance of investing in disaster risk reduction and preparedness measures to reduce the impact of future disasters and save lives.
The mission was carried out by Emirates Crescent, the humanitarian arm of the UAE government, in partnership with the Syrian Ministry of Health, under the directive of Sheikha Fatima, Mother of the Nation.
Five adult patients were taken to Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City, with children aged nine, 10, 12, 14 and 16 transferred to Sheikh Khalifa Medical City. All of the children have suffered fractures to limbs, with two in critical condition. Sheikha Fatima called on authorities to arrange treatment for some of those injured in the Turkey-Syria quake. She has taken care of the costs of their treatment and all the resulting commitments, state news agency Wam reported.
The UAE’s search and rescue team’s efforts in the earthquake relief effort in Syria have been remarkable, and their return home is a cause for celebration. The team’s contributions to the mission have helped support those affected by the disaster and build the capacity of local teams to respond to future emergencies. The international community must continue to work together to provide assistance and support to those affected by natural disasters and other emergencies.
