Pakistan: More than 50 people killed in horrific bomb attack on hospital in Quetta

Geneva/Islamabad (ICRC) – The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) is deeply saddened by the horrific attack on Civil Hospital Quetta today that has killed over 50 people and injured many more.

Reto Stocker, head of ICRC delegation in Pakistan, said: "We are shocked to see so many innocent people killed in cold blood today just outside the casualty department of the Civil Hospital in Quetta. Hospitals are places where lives are saved – there can be no justification for such horrendous acts. We share the grief and pain of the bereaved families at this difficult time."

Diminishing respect for hospitals, medical staff and ambulances is at the heart of the ICRC's concerns globally and in Pakistan. The sanctity of healthcare facilities must be respected at all costs. Together with Pakistan's medical fraternity, the ICRC has been working for the last two years to promote the safety of healthcare services in all circumstances.

For more information, please contact:
Najum Abbasi, ICRC Islamabad, tel. +92 300 852 91 08
Neha Thakkar, ICRC Geneva, tel. +41 79 574 0636