ICRC Reminds Warring Parties To Respect Civilians And Civilians Objectives As Backed By IHL

ICRC reminds warring parties to respect civilians and civilians objectives as backed by IHL .

From Umar Dankano, Yola.

The International Committee of the Red Cross(ICRC) has expressed fear over the escalation of the middle east armed con flict turning to full blown regional war if not addressed urgently.

ICRC’s Regional Director for Near and Middle East, Nicolas Von Arx disclosed the position through a press release stressing that with the intensity of violence in the region the warring parties are reminded of their obligations under the International humanitarian law.

In the release issued yesterday by the Public Relations Officer of ICRC’s Abuja Delegation,Aliyu Dawobe, the Committee cautioned the parties the need to protect the civilians and civilian objects decrying that, risks are massive. If the violence continues to escalate as the potential harm to civilians is incalculable.

Von Arx explained that, cvilians have already borne the brunt of armed conflict over the last year, with the kidnapping of hostages in Israel and the ongoing humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza. And now we see a concerning spread of loss of life and destruction in Lebanon.

He added that, the ICRC calls on all sides to avoid the use of explosive weapons in populated areas, as these cause indiscriminate harm, leading to a potentially significant toll on civilian lives, homes, and essential infrastructure.

“All parties must uphold their obligations under international humanitarian law to reduce the suffering of civilians and pave the way for a more stable and peaceful future,”

“Dehumanization that fuels more cycles of violence must be shunned by all sides and People displaced from their homes must be allowed to flee in safety and able to access humanitarian assistance especially the most vulnerable, including children, the elderly, and those with disabilities.

“They face an increasing risk of life-threatening conditions as healthcare services and essential supplies are stretched thin. Ambulances, healthcare facilities and first responders must be protected.

“Parties to the conflict must ensure the basic needs of civilians, including water, food and medical care, and they must facilitate the rapid and unimpeded passage of supplies, equipment and personnel of all humanitarian and impartial aid organizations.

“Working with our partners in the Red Cross Red Crescent Movement, the ICRC is ramping up its efforts across the region, particularly its support to healthcare services. But the scale of needs may soon become so overwhelming that humanitarian organizations would not be able to respond to them all”.The statement lamented.