The International Committee of the Red Cross has commended a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Lebanon, aimed at ending the fighting and bringing stability to a region exhausted by conflict.
According to a statement released by the ICRC, the ceasefire must be upheld and enforced across all levels of command to ensure much-needed respite for civilians on both sides of the border.
The conflict has had a devastating impact on civilians, with many killed or injured and over a million people displaced from their homes in Lebanon and Israel.
“The ICRC is working to help those most in need and will support efforts to create conditions where families can return home safely and begin rebuilding their lives,” the statement read.
The ICRC plans to scale up efforts to distribute essential items like food and hygiene kits, provide medical supplies and technical support to healthcare facilities, and help repair water and electricity infrastructure.
However, the ICRC noted that while the agreement brings hope, the region remains tense, and the humanitarian situation in Gaza is unacceptable.
“We reiterate our urgent call for the immediate respect of international humanitarian law; the protection of civilians and civilian objects; and an unhindered and increased flow of humanitarian assistance,” the ICRC stated.
