OUR RESPONSE TO THE IRAN CONFLICT
As you may be aware, the joint military operation by the US and Israel against Iran has led to the Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI) coming under Iranian drone and missile strikes, as well as attacks from Iran-aligned militia groups.
This has created a rapidly changing security situation in areas where the Lotus Flower works, including routes between Erbil and Duhok. Targets have included Erbil International Airport and the city’s US Consulate General, while the Kurdistan Region’s internal security forces (peshmerga) have also been targeted by drones.
Across the region, there have been widespread power cuts and disruption to electricity supply. Local authorities have also temporarily closed schools, universities and public institutions as a precaution, while residents are being urged to seek shelter if air-raid sirens are heard.
Though the situation continues to evolve, it goes without saying that our biggest priority remains the safety of our staff and the continued support of the women, girls and community members we serve.
In the wake of the conflict, we immediately activated our security protocols across all programme locations and we have remained in close contact with our staff on the ground. Thankfully, all team members have so far remained safe.
Programme activities in camp and non-camp settings have been heavily disrupted, but to ensure we can continue supporting communities during this period, we are:
Pausing non-essential staff travel while monitoring security conditions daily.
Adjusting programme schedules where necessary to keep activities safe and accessible.
Providing remote support where internet connectivity allows.
Strengthening mental health and psychosocial support for women experiencing heightened stress and anxiety.
Liaising closely with local authorities, humanitarian partners and organisations such as OCHA and the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) to keep informed and
Reviewing force majeure provisions across all active donor contracts in light of programme disruption.
Many of the women, girls and families we work with have already experienced trauma and displacement, and when tensions arise again, it increases anxiety and emotional stress. There are growing concerns that if instability continues in neighbouring areas, many more communities will be displaced and seek safety in the Kurdistan Region, increasing pressure on already vulnerable communities.
As we look ahead, we will continue to monitor all developments closely and issue further updates if and when appropriate.
We’re sure you’ll agree that in times of such uncertainty, the safety and wellbeing of communities is more important than ever. Thank you for your continued support, and if you would like to help us continue our work and be better equipped in our response to emerging needs, please do donate here.