ICRC: unbearable level of pain, suffering and loss
Published: Sunday, Oct 6th 2024, 12:10
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The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) speaks of an "unbearable level of pain, suffering and loss" following the terrorist attacks on Israel on October 7, 2023 and the subsequent Israeli military strikes. "This year is characterized by broken hearts and unanswered questions. Families have been torn apart and many relatives are still being held against their will. Tens of thousands of people have been killed, millions displaced across the region," the ICRC said in Geneva.
It has once again called on all parties involved to comply with international humanitarian law. The dignity of people must be respected. "They have rights and are entitled to protection, humanitarian aid and the opportunity to build a new life in safety," said the ICRC.
ICRC is strictly neutral
Under the universally applicable Geneva Conventions, the ICRC has the task of preventing and alleviating suffering in armed conflicts and promoting compliance with international humanitarian law with the protection of the civilian population as its top priority. All parties to a conflict must actually allow the ICRC access to prisoners, but this is not the case in the Middle East conflict either. The organization is strictly neutral and does not name any party to the conflict that violates international law.
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