"In a stark interview, ICRC President Mirjana Spoljaric stated that Gaza has devolved into a crisis worse than 'hell on earth,' urging global leaders to take decisive action to protect civilians and restore dignity amid ongoing violence. She highlighted the urgent need for adherence to international humanitarian law as deaths and casualties rise."
"ICRC President Decries Gaza Crisis as Humanity Fails: Calls for Urgent Action"
"ICRC President Decries Gaza Crisis as Humanity Fails: Calls for Urgent Action"
"Mirjana Spoljaric, president of the International Committee of the Red Cross, condemns the dire situation in Gaza as views from the humanitarian organization reveal unprecedented suffering and chaos amid conflict."
The ongoing conflict in Gaza has prompted alarming statements from the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) as its president, Mirjana Spoljaric, described the situation in the region as worse than “hell on earth” during a recent interview with the BBC in Geneva. Spoljaric emphasized the failures of humanity as the world watches the humanitarian crisis unfold in Gaza, urging state leaders to take immediate action to alleviate suffering and restore human dignity.
Spoljaric's remarks come at a time when Gaza has witnessed unprecedented levels of destruction and suffering. She mentioned that the situation had deteriorated further since her previous warning in April, as civilians are stripped of their basic rights and protections under international humanitarian law. Emphasizing the obligations of states, she stated, "We cannot continue to watch what is happening. It surpasses any acceptable legal, moral, and humane standard."
Amidst the ongoing conflict, Israel has defended its military actions in Gaza as self-defense against Hamas, which carried out attacks on October 7, 2023, resulting in significant casualties. While Spoljaric recognized the rights of states to defend themselves, she firmly stressed that this should never justify the violation of humanitarian laws. "There are rules in the conduct of hostilities that every party must respect," she said.
The ICRC, with a longstanding history of humanitarian aid, acts as a crucial source of information amid restrictions on international media in Gaza. Spoljaric confirmed that the organization’s teams have faced overwhelming challenges in providing care in war zones as their surgical hospital in Rafah struggles to manage the influx of casualties. "Nowhere is safe in Gaza," she asserted, describing a harrowing scenario where even hospitals are not secure.
The ICRC data indicated a recent spike in casualties, including children, and underscores the urgent need for intervention. Reports from Gaza described violence during aid distribution efforts, further complicating humanitarian work. The Israeli military has stated they are investigating claims of excessive force used in these situations.
In her call for action, Spoljaric warned against the growing discourse around total war and dehumanization, which, in her view, threatens the fundamental rights of all individuals. She urged state leaders worldwide to act decisively to halt the violence and protect civilians, stating, "It will haunt them, it would reach their doorsteps." Without a ceasefire, Spoljaric fears that the pathway to peace in the region will be irreparably damaged.
The discourse surrounding the humanitarian crisis in Gaza emphasizes the need for global accountability and collective action. The call for urgency by the ICRC reflects a broader concern that the ongoing violence will have long-lasting implications beyond the immediate conflict, jeopardizing the safety and security of future generations.
