Geneva/Damascus (ICRC) - The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) is concerned about the safety of tens of thousands of civilians caught in the line of fire or fleeing violence in the southern governorate of Daraa.
"We urgently call on all sides fighting in Daraa, Sweida and Quneitra to show restraint and to do their utmost to spare civilians, those no longer participating in the hostilities, and infrastructure essential to their survival," said the ICRC regional director for the Near and Middle East, Robert Mardini.
"We are receiving reports about people fleeing as the frontlines shift," added Mr Mardini. "We ask those fighting and neighbouring countries to facilitate civilians' access to safety and essential services, including life-saving medical care. Civilians should, as always, have options to flee the violence and seek refuge and protection.
The ICRC stands ready to provide urgent relief to the displaced, including care for the wounded.
For further information, please contact:
Eva Pilipp, ICRC Damascus, +963 930 336 718
Marie-Claire Feghali, ICRC Geneva, +41 79 536 92 31
