Brief
ICRC urges urgent protection for West Bank civilians amid escalating violence
Julien Lerisson of the ICRC says the violence must end and international humanitarian law must be respected.
By Felo News Desk · Published
The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has issued an urgent appeal for the protection of the civilian population in the West Bank, saying that dozens of Palestinians have been killed, hundreds injured and many more displaced this year.
Julien Lerisson, head of the ICRC delegation for Israel and the occupied territories, warned that "the frequent and severe violence must be brought to an end" and stressed that Israeli authorities have a legal responsibility to safeguard civilians, including when violence is perpetrated by settlers. He added that international humanitarian law requires respect for private and public property and for essential services.
The ICRC highlighted that movement restrictions are preventing patients from reaching health care, children from attending school and families from accessing their homes and livelihoods. Ambulances are reportedly held up at checkpoints for hours, and road closures force longer routes for first responders.
While acknowledging Israel's right to security measures, the ICRC reiterated that, as the occupying power, Israel must treat protected persons humanely, protect them from violence, and work to restore public order and civil life. Lerisson called for an end to settlement expansion as part of upholding international law.
For earlier coverage of rising tensions in the West Bank, see Smotrich Calls for War in West Bank.
Key facts
- The ICRC says dozens of Palestinians have been killed and hundreds injured in the West Bank this year. (icrc.org)
- Julien Lerisson, head of the ICRC delegation, called for an end to the frequent and severe violence. (icrc.org)
- The ICRC warns that movement restrictions are preventing patients, children and families from accessing health care, schools and homes. (icrc.org)
- The ICRC states that Israel, as the occupying power, must protect civilians and respect international humanitarian law. (icrc.org)
Sources
- [1] icrc.org — originally reported as “West Bank: ICRC calls for urgent protection of civilian population”
