The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights has voiced deep concern over the escalating conflict in the Middle East, describing the fear and anxiety felt by millions as “palpable – and entirely avoidable.”
Volker Türk, UN Human Rights Chief, expressed shock at the widespread impact on civilians and civilian infrastructure since the conflict erupted on Saturday, following attacks on Iran by Israel and the United States, Iran’s retaliatory strikes across the region, and Hezbollah’s subsequent involvement, says spokesperson for the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Ravina Shamdasani
“The laws of war are crystal clear. Civilians and civilian objects are protected. All States and armed groups must comply,” said Türk, urging all parties to exercise maximum restraint, prevent further escalation, and take all feasible measures to safeguard civilians and critical infrastructure.
He stressed that returning to negotiations is the only way to halt the killing and destruction.
So far, in addition to Iran and Israel, hostilities have affected 12 other countries, damaging homes, offices, businesses, airports, and energy infrastructure.
In Iran, the Red Crescent reports 787 civilian deaths. In Minab, dozens of girls were killed or injured when their primary school was struck during class, prompting calls for a thorough and impartial investigation.
The Iranian military has responded with hundreds of missiles and drones targeting other regional states, resulting in civilian casualties and damage.
In Beit Shemesh, central Israel, nine civilians were killed when a missile hit a residential area.
The situation in Lebanon is also worsening, with Hezbollah firing projectiles at Israel, and Israel conducting heavy counterstrikes, including in Beirut. Nearly 30,000 residents reportedly fled affected areas overnight, adding to 64,000 already displaced.
Türk warned that attacks targeting civilians or civilian infrastructure, as well as indiscriminate strikes, are serious violations of international humanitarian law and may constitute war crimes.
He also raised concerns over Iran’s crackdown on dissent, restrictions on internet access, and the safety of hundreds of political prisoners.
“Human rights must not be used as a bargaining chip. They must be central to Iran’s future,” Türk said, urging all parties to end the violence and for states to uphold the UN Charter, international human rights law, and humanitarian law.
