Raed al-Saleh () is a Syrian humanitarian leader and politician who is currently serving as the Minister of Emergency and Disaster Management within the Syrian transitional government. Previously, al-Saleh was director of the White Helmets, a volunteer rescue organization operating in opposition-held areas of Syria. He was named one of Time magazine's 100 Most Influential People in 2017.
Career
White Helmets
Al-Saleh has played a key role in leading the White Helmets, overseeing search and rescue operations, medical assistance, and disaster response efforts in war-torn regions of Syria. Under his leadership, the organization has been internationally recognized for its humanitarian work, receiving multiple awards, including the Right Livelihood Award and a nomination for the Nobel Peace Prize. In 2017, he was honoured as one of Time magazine's 100 Most Influential People.
On 29 March 2025, after al-Saleh's appointment as the Minister of Disaster and Emergency Management in Syria, he issued a statement announcing his resignation from the White Helmets.
Minister of Emergency and Disaster Management al-Saleh was appointed as the Minister of Emergency and Disaster Management on 29 March 2025 by President Ahmed al-Sharaa, after the formation of the Syrian transitional government.
References