VOICE calls for respect for International Humanitarian Law amid escalating violence in the Middle East

VOICE expresses deep concern over the rapidly escalating military violence across the Middle East and its devastating consequences for civilians.

In recent days, the fighting has intensified significantly, with increased cross-border strikes and attacks affecting populated areas. This escalation is placing civilian populations at heightened risk and further destabilising an already fragile region. Civilians continue to bear the brunt of the violence, while critical civilian infrastructure and essential services face growing threats.

In this context, regional directors of 14 international NGOs have issued a joint statement warning of the grave humanitarian consequences of the ongoing violence. The statement highlights that the continued use of heavy explosive weapons risks causing widespread civilian harm and destruction of essential infrastructure. Damage to hospitals, schools and water systems further compounds humanitarian needs and undermines communities’ access to basic services.

VOICE shares the concerns expressed in the statement and echoes the call for all parties to the conflict to take all feasible precautions to protect civilians and civilian objects.

VOICE also stresses the importance of ensuring safe, rapid and unimpeded humanitarian access to populations in need. Humanitarian organisations must be able to operate safely and in accordance with the humanitarian principles of humanity, neutrality, impartiality and independence.

VOICE urges the EU and its Member States to speak with one voice,  intensifying diplomatic efforts to halt the ongoing escalation, calling all parties to the conflict to ensure the respect of International Humanitarian Law and to enable humanitarian access!