Red Cross urges immediate protection of civilians amid Israeli-Palestinian escalation

By Aysu Bicer

LONDON (AA) - The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) said Saturday it has grave concerns about the alarming escalation of armed violence in Israel and the Occupied Territories.

The ICRC urged all parties to uphold their legal obligations under international humanitarian law, emphasizing the need to safeguard the lives of civilians and health care workers.

"The images and reports we have seen this morning are utterly horrific. The violence directed against civilians is appalling and cannot be justified. If the situation continues to escalate, then civilians on both sides will suffer immensely," said ICRC regional director for the Near and Middle East, Fabrizio Carboni.

He emphasized that adherence to international humanitarian law was non-negotiable and insisted that civilians and civilian infrastructure be protected at all times.

"We are aware of reports relating to people being captured or detained. I want to make it clear that carrying out, or threatening to carry out, an act of hostage-taking is prohibited under international humanitarian law. Anyone detained, including combatants, must be treated humanely and with dignity," he added.

The ICRC extended an offer to visit any detainees, ensuring their well-being and providing updates to their families in its role as a neutral intermediary.

“In our role as a neutral intermediary, we are ready to visit anyone detained so we can check on their well-being and provide news to their loved ones,” it said.