UN Human Rights Office Expresses Shock at Impact of Middle East War on Civilians in Region

Volker Türk, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights

Geneva, 03 March /QNA/ - Volker Türk, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, today expressed his "deep shock" at the impact of the war in the Middle East on civilians amid fear and panic spreading across the region, calling on all parties to come to their senses and put an end to this violence.

Ravina Shamdasani, spokesperson for the UN High Commissioner, said during a press conference that "the fear, panic, and anxiety felt by millions in the Middle East and beyond is clear for all to see, and it was entirely avoidable," noting that "the situation is getting worse, deteriorating hour by hour."

She added: "Türk is deeply shocked by the impact of the widespread hostilities on civilians and civilian infrastructure since the outbreak of the conflict on Saturday with the attacks by Israel and the United States on Iran, Iran's response against countries in the region, and Hezbollah's subsequent entry into the conflict," stating that "the laws of war are absolutely clear.. civilians and civilian objects are protected.. all states and armed groups must comply with these laws."

She also mentioned that the UN Office calls on all parties to "exercise maximum restraint, prevent further escalation, and take all possible measures to protect civilians, including foreign nationals, as well as critical infrastructure," urging all parties to take all necessary actions to protect civilians and critical infrastructure, and return to the negotiating table as "the only way to stop the killing, destruction, and despair."