News release

Geneva (ICRC) – The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) is concerned about the humanitarian consequences of the escalation of violence in the Gaza Strip in recent days.

It appeals for the rules and principles of international humanitarian law to be fully respected.

The ICRC urges all parties to spare civilians not taking direct part in hostilities and reminds them that attacks must not be directed against civilian objects. In particular, it recalls the obligation to exercise precaution and to respect the proportionality principle in all military operations so as to prevent unnecessary suffering among the civilian population.

The ICRC also calls on those detaining the Israeli soldier captured on 25 June to treat him humanely and to respect his life and his dignity, in accordance with international humanitarian law.