Armed conflict in the Middle East

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) appeals for respect for the rights of civilians in the face of armed conflict in the Middle East. All civilians and medical personnel must be treated in accordance with international humanitarian law.

The State of Israel was attacked by Hamas on October 7, 2023, simultaneously from the air, sea, and land. The Israeli army responded with a retaliatory strike. The number of casualties is rising on both sides. Therefore, it is crucial that medical personnel on the ground have adequate working conditions.

Meanwhile, according to information provided by the ICRC, an ambulance of Magen David Adom, the Israeli society affiliated with the International Red Cross and Red Crescent, was shot at. The crew, which had been saving those most in need from the first moments, was killed.

"The images and reports we see and receive are absolutely shocking. The violence directed against the civilian population is horrific and cannot be justified in any way. (...) It should also be emphasized that we are fully aware of reports of the capture or detention of individuals. Every detained person must be treated humanely and with dignity," said Fabrizio Carboni, ICRC Regional Director for the Middle East and North Africa.

The International Committee of the Red Cross, while carrying out its core tasks, is ready – as a neutral organization – to assist both sides and support all victims in this armed conflict, including detainees held in custody, camps, or prisons.

Already in the first hours, the International Committee of the Red Cross provided medical assistance to hospitals in Gaza: stretchers and bandages. It also delivered 180 body bags to the local Ministry of Health.

The situation on the ground is dynamic. Many roads in Israel are closed, making safe access to victims difficult.