WFP's Executive Director, Josette Sheeran, has sent a letter of condolence to the International Rescue Committee (IRC) expressing profound sadness and regret at the August 13th incident outside Kabul, Afghanistan, where four IRC staff members were killed on August 13, 2008.

"WFP works side by side with IRC in Afghanistan, Darfur and throughout the world and we deeply rely on our partnership. Such a tragedy is a sad reminder of the many humanitarian workers and colleagues who continue to work with dedication in environments where grave security risks and incidents are a daily occurrence."

Sheeran expressed the agency's deepest sympathy to the families and colleagues of Mohammad Aimal, Shirley Case, Nicole Dial and Jacqueline Kirk, saying their dedication and service to the global humanitarian effort will not be forgotten. She sent wishes for a fast recovery to the other IRC colleagues injured in the incident.

WFP has major operations in Afghanistan to assist millions of people affected by natural disasters, conflict and high food prices. Between January and August 2008, WFP had 20 armed attacks against commercial vehicles carrying its food.