The following is a statement from ICRC President Mirjana Spoljaric on the widening of hostilities in the Middle East:

Geneva (ICRC) – The recent escalation of hostilities in the Middle East affecting Yemen and Saudi Arabia risks a further expansion of conflict in the region that, if not contained, could worsen the already devastating humanitarian situation faced by millions of people. Concrete steps must, at all times, be taken to protect civilians and essential infrastructure.

Humanitarian action is critical to responding to the consequences of conflict, but it can never replace respect for international humanitarian law and political commitment to de-escalate.

If the fighting continues, we fear it will lead to more deaths and injuries, population displacement and a potentially catastrophic disruption of essential services and infrastructure such as health care, water, fuel and electricity.

We continue to engage with the parties on the importance of respecting international humanitarian law and on other humanitarian issues. ICRC teams across the region are working closely with our Red Cross and Red Crescent partners to respond to needs on the ground.

https://www.icrc.org/en/statement/icrc-president-urgent-steps-needed-de-escalate-hostilities-middle-east