Escalation of violence in the Middle East. We appeal for help

The humanitarian situation in the Middle East is rapidly deteriorating. In many countries in the region, the number of casualties, wounded, and people forced to leave their homes is increasing. The Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement is scaling up its relief efforts, and the Polish Red Cross is appealing for support for those affected. 

Wide-ranging attacks on targets in Iran have triggered a spiral of military actions throughout the region. A series of strikes and retaliatory actions have expanded the conflict to multiple countries in the region, including Israel, Lebanon, and Iraq. Incidents have been reported in Kuwait, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Oman, and Azerbaijan. People fleeing Iran are pouring into neighboring countries.

The effects on the civilian population are very serious. Currently, at least 1100 casualties have been reported, and thousands more have been injured. The largest losses have been recorded in Iran, where according to data from the Iranian Red Crescent, several hundred people have died, while casualties and significant destruction of civilian infrastructure are also reported in Lebanon and Israel.

In light of the growing violence, we again remind of the fundamental principles of international humanitarian law. The civilian populationmust not be the target of attacks. Civilian infrastructure is also protected – including hospitals, schools, and residential buildings. Medical personnel and rescuers must have the ability to carry out their work safely.

Teams belonging to the global network of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement are operating on the ground. The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has its operational teams in Iran, Israel, the Occupied Territories, Lebanon, and other parts of the region. Their tasks include assessing needs, supporting healthcare systems, and preparing humanitarian supplies that can be quickly used in the event of further escalation.

At the same time, national Red Cross and Red Crescent societies are conducting activities.

The Polish Red Cross, as part of the global network of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, is engaging in support for people affected by the conflict.

Due to the scale of the crisis and the need for rapid response, support is directed through international structures – primarily to associations operating directly on the ground, which can immediately mobilize humanitarian aid.

Financial resources will allow, among other things:

The Polish Red Cross is conducting a fundraising campaign to support humanitarian actions of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement in the Middle East. The escalation of violence increases the number of civilian casualties and deepens the humanitarian crisis in the region.

Help: 

Every donation helps increase the scale of assistance for those caught in the center of one of the most serious humanitarian crises in recent months.