The President of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has cautioned that the recent U.S. strike on Iran’s nuclear facilities could escalate into a far-reaching conflict, stressing that adherence to international law is a duty, not an option.
“The intensification and spread of major military operations in the Middle East risk engulfing the region – and the world – in a war with irreversible consequences,” ICRC President Mirjana Spoljaric said in a statement.
Spoljaric emphasized that the world cannot withstand unending warfare and reiterated the legal obligation to protect civilians during armed conflict.
“The world cannot absorb limitless war. Upholding international humanitarian law is not a choice – it is an obligation. Civilians must be spared from the conduct of hostilities,” she said.
The ICRC chief noted that the organization maintains a presence in both Iran and Israel and is preparing to expand operations to meet growing humanitarian needs.
“[However], no humanitarian response can substitute for political will to prioritise peace, stability and human life,” she added.