In recent statements to the BBC from the ICRC's Geneva headquarters, Mirjana Spoljaric characterized the humanitarian crisis in Gaza as surpassing "any acceptable, legal, moral, and humane standard." With the ongoing conflict causing unprecedented destruction and suffering, she emphasized the urgency of intervention from global leaders to alleviate the plight of Palestinians and release hostages.
The ICRC, a century-and-a-half-old humanitarian organization, has become increasingly vocal in its condemnation of the current situation. "Humanity is failing," Spoljaric stated, highlighting the severe toll the conflict has taken on human dignity. She underscored that no justification exists for violating the Geneva Conventions, which are intended to protect all individuals caught in armed conflicts, regardless of their allegiance.
In light of the escalating conflict, which has reportedly taken the lives of over 50,000 Palestinians since Israel's military response to Hamas attacks on October 7, Spoljaric called for accountability from both parties involved. She insisted, "Every state has a right to defend itself... but there are rules in the conduct of hostilities that must be respected." This includes the rights of mothers longing for the safe return of their children amid widespread violence.
Despite stringent conditions imposed on international media access in Gaza, the ICRC's local staff have been instrumental in documenting the situation. However, the organization is facing overwhelming challenges, as evidenced by a recent surge of casualties at its surgical hospital in Rafah, which is situated perilously close to ongoing military operations. Reports indicate that medical teams recently received 184 patients in just a few hours, highlighting the dire circumstances faced by civilians.
Spoljaric expressed deep concern about the current military strategy, which she believes is endangering civilian lives further. "Nowhere is safe in Gaza," she noted, emphasizing that the ongoing humanitarian operations must not violate basic safety protocols. She remains steadfast in her call for a ceasefire and advocates for the preservation of pathways to peace, warning that apathy towards the situation will have broader implications on global stability.
As the ICRC continues to fulfill its mission amidst chaos, Spoljaric pleaded with state leaders to act decisively, repeating the mantra that “it is not too late” to make a difference. The urgency of her message underscores a critical truth – the protection of human dignity and life must prevail over the mechanics of war.
The ICRC, a century-and-a-half-old humanitarian organization, has become increasingly vocal in its condemnation of the current situation. "Humanity is failing," Spoljaric stated, highlighting the severe toll the conflict has taken on human dignity. She underscored that no justification exists for violating the Geneva Conventions, which are intended to protect all individuals caught in armed conflicts, regardless of their allegiance.
In light of the escalating conflict, which has reportedly taken the lives of over 50,000 Palestinians since Israel's military response to Hamas attacks on October 7, Spoljaric called for accountability from both parties involved. She insisted, "Every state has a right to defend itself... but there are rules in the conduct of hostilities that must be respected." This includes the rights of mothers longing for the safe return of their children amid widespread violence.
Despite stringent conditions imposed on international media access in Gaza, the ICRC's local staff have been instrumental in documenting the situation. However, the organization is facing overwhelming challenges, as evidenced by a recent surge of casualties at its surgical hospital in Rafah, which is situated perilously close to ongoing military operations. Reports indicate that medical teams recently received 184 patients in just a few hours, highlighting the dire circumstances faced by civilians.
Spoljaric expressed deep concern about the current military strategy, which she believes is endangering civilian lives further. "Nowhere is safe in Gaza," she noted, emphasizing that the ongoing humanitarian operations must not violate basic safety protocols. She remains steadfast in her call for a ceasefire and advocates for the preservation of pathways to peace, warning that apathy towards the situation will have broader implications on global stability.
As the ICRC continues to fulfill its mission amidst chaos, Spoljaric pleaded with state leaders to act decisively, repeating the mantra that “it is not too late” to make a difference. The urgency of her message underscores a critical truth – the protection of human dignity and life must prevail over the mechanics of war.
