Catastrophic humanitarian situation in the Middle East

The Palestinian Red Crescent Society and Magen David Adom in Israel (an organization affiliated with the International Red Cross Movement) have been working tirelessly from the first moments to provide essential assistance to the affected, including medical care and humanitarian support.

Red Cross workers and volunteers risk their lives to save the lives of others. Unfortunately, last week we lost colleagues from both National Societies: they were killed in service. Their death became a tragic reminder of the dangers humanitarian and medical workers face. Even when they maintain full neutrality.

We are ready to do everything in our power to help, also in the role of a neutral intermediary. Humanitarian workers must have the freedom to move in order to assist those in need. Medical facilities and medical personnel cannot be targets of attacks. – says Mirjana Spoljaric, president of the International Committee of the Red Cross. The committee based in Geneva reminded both sides of the conflict of their numerous obligations and existing prohibitions under international humanitarian law based on the Geneva Conventions.

The Geneva Conventions prohibit the killing of civilians and the mistreatment of prisoners of war, while also requiring care for the wounded and sick. Detainees must always be treated humanely and with the dignity owed to every human being. Taking hostages is prohibited, and civilians taken captive should be released immediately – without harm. The ICRC is always ready to assist in reuniting families and loved ones, clarifying the fate of missing persons, and evacuating the wounded.