Gaza has deteriorated into a situation worse than hell on earth, as per the president of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), Mirjana Spoljaric, in a recent BBC interview.
Speaking from the ICRC’s Geneva headquarters, Spoljaric expressed deep concern about the escalating horrors, stating that humanity is failing as it witnesses the catastrophe unfold. “It has become worse… surpassing any legal, moral, and humane standard,” she remarked, highlighting the widespread destruction and suffering endured by the people.
She emphasized the urgent need for states to intervene, alleviate Palestinian suffering, and secure the release of Israeli hostages. The message carried weight, supported by the ICRC’s long-standing commitment to humanitarian aid and the Geneva Conventions designed to protect civilians in conflict.
Addressing Israel’s self-defense claims in the context of the October 7 attacks by Hamas, Spoljaric asserted that while self-defense is a right, it doesn’t justify the severe consequences on civilians, including the deprivation of basic needs for children in Gaza. “The same rules apply to every human being under the Geneva Convention,” she added, calling for respect from all parties involved.
The ICRC has been crucial in documenting the crisis, as Israel restricts international journalists from entering Gaza. Spoljaric reported that their surgical hospital in Rafah is inundated with casualties, noting that the current humanitarian efforts are failing to protect civilians adequately.
“Nowhere is safe in Gaza. Not for the civilians, not for the hostages,” she concluded, underscoring the urgent need for effective solutions to this humanitarian disaster.
Source: www.bbc.com
