Amman: The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) warned that the pattern of hostilities in the Middle East is one of a destructive nature that undermines the foundations of civilian life.
According to Jordan News Agency, one month of hostilities has upended the lives of millions and sent shockwaves far beyond the region at a scale and speed that threatens to overwhelm the humanitarian response, it said in a statement.
In just four weeks, thousands have lost their lives, including first responders and humanitarian workers. Hundreds of thousands have been uprooted, and essential infrastructure critical for the supply of energy, water, and health care has been damaged or destroyed, the statement added.
The ICRC highlighted that the use of heavy explosive weapons with wide area impact in urban settings has caused suffering and fear. The way hostilities have been waged has exacerbated the detrimental impact, the organization noted. Without respect for the rules of war, civilians will continue to suffer profound consequences that could outlast the current conflict, it warned.
The ICRC emphasized that it is working closely with its partners and the Red Crescent Movement, which have mobilized thousands of staff and volunteers to assist those affected by the hostilities. The statement further urged all parties and states to respect international humanitarian law in any circumstances, underscoring the importance of adhering to the rules of war to mitigate consequences for civilians, especially during military operations.