Swiss aid on the ground in Iraqi Kurdistan

Switzerland has sent tents and supplies to refugees facing the prospect of a cold winter in temporary camps. An individual is also trying to make a difference. (RTS/swissinfo.ch)

Neutral Switzerland is not taking part in any military action against the Islamic State (IS) terrorist groups in Syria and Iraq. Swiss involvement remains diplomatic and humanitarian.

Switzerland has sent 50 tonnes of winter aid relief, worth CHF400,000 ($427,000), to northern Iraq. The cargo is mostly made up of cold weather tents, but also includes heaters, blankets, mattresses and cooking sets for 1,800 people in the greater Erbil area. There are also two transport units of medical equipment which can provide basic medical care for 10,000 people for three months, which have been requested by the local health ministry.
As well as government aid agencies, a private charity run by a former Kurdish refugee to Switzerland is helping out in a remote valley in northern Iraq where reportedly no other international NGOs are yet active. Privately funded practical aid is being sent. Mainly food is being delivered but blankets and heating systems are also being collected.