Red Cross director says "crisis" ahead in Afghanistan

The regional director of the International Federation of the Red Cross says if money isn’t restored to pay for wages and services the coming of winter could spell a “major humanitarian crisis” for Afghanistan

KABUL, Afghanistan -- Severe financial shortfalls and the coming of winter could spell a “major humanitarian crisis” for Afghanistan if money isn't restored to pay for wages and services, especially healthcare, the regional director of the International Federation of the Red Cross said on Thursday.

Alexander Matheou said Afghanistan is set to enter an “extremely difficult few months” as temperatures drop, compounding food shortages resulting from drought and poverty. Cuts to health services put many vulnerable Afghans, particularly in rural areas, at risk.

The warning comes as Taliban authorities swiftly dispersed with gunfire a women-led protest demanding equal rights to education in Kabul. Posters held by a small group of women saying “Do not burn our books!” were confiscated and scrapped by armed men, on the grounds that the women had not asked for permission to rally.

The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Society is appealing for 36 million CHF ($38 million) to continue funding health clinics, emergency relief, and other services across 16 provinces. Matheou spoke at a news conference in Kabul a day after U.N. spokesman Stephane Dujarric asked donors to fast-track funding for a $606 million flash appeal that is only 22% funded to help 11 million Afghans for the remainder of the year.