Statement on escalations in hostilities in the Middle East

Amidst the current escalation in hostilities across the Middle East, the IHL Centre reminds all parties to the conflict that they are bound by legal obligations under international humanitarian law (IHL).

This includes the duty to take constant care to spare the civilian population and civilian objects in the conduct of military operations, to respect the principles of distinction, proportionality and precautions in the conduct of hostilities, and to ensure safe and unimpeded humanitarian access.

We are concerned about the aerial strikes affecting numerous countries across the region and remind all parties of their legal obligations under IHL when undertaking such strikes. These include verifying that targets are military objectives, taking all feasible precautions in the choice of means and methods of warfare with a view to avoiding and minimizing incidental civilian harm, and refraining from attacks expected to cause incidental civilian harm which would be excessive in relation to the concrete and direct military advantage anticipated.

In Lebanon, we are particularly alarmed by the displacement of civilians following evacuation warnings, as well as reported attacks on civilian buildings. Evacuations, warnings and military operations must comply with IHL and must not expose civilians to further harm or unlawful displacement.

We also reiterate our ongoing concerns about violations of international law in the occupied Palestinian territory, in both Gaza and the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, particularly in view of reports that humanitarian crossings have been closed and the risk that these situations will be sidelined as international attention shifts.

Pending more detailed analysis, we further note that serious legal questions arise under international law governing the resort to military force (jus ad bellum), including regarding the scope of lawful self-defence, the requirements of necessity and proportionality, and the legality of military action conducted on or from the territory of third States.

At moments of heightened violence, rigorous compliance with IHL is not optional; it is essential to limiting harm and preserving human dignity.

We remind humanitarian, diplomatic and media actors that the IHL Centre offers a free and confidential IHL advisory service, providing tailored legal guidance and analysis to support effective humanitarian advocacy and engagement. For any queries, please contact info@ihlcentre.org. You can download a PDF version of the full statement, in both English and Arabic, below: