New Zealand Red Cross monitoring escalating hostilities in the Middle East and South Asia

New Zealand Red Cross is deeply concerned by the recent escalation of hostilities in parts of the Middle East, as well as rising tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan.

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has warned that the intensification and expansion of military operations across the Middle East is placing civilian lives in grave danger. In its most recent public statement, the ICRC President emphasised that international humanitarian law, including the protection of civilians, medical personnel, and essential services — must be upheld by all parties to the conflict.

Red Cross and Red Crescent teams are on the ground in affected countries, responding to humanitarian needs where access allows. This includes emergency medical support, preparedness activities and coordination with local authorities.

The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) is working closely with National Societies in the region as the situation evolves, supporting response efforts and monitoring emerging humanitarian needs.

New Zealand Red Cross stands in solidarity with our colleagues across the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement who are responding in challenging and often dangerous circumstances.

We reiterate the importance of respecting international humanitarian law and always ensuring the protection of civilians and humanitarian personnel.

We will continue to monitor developments and will provide further updates if additional support is requested through the Movement.

Support for families in New Zealand

If you are in New Zealand and have lost contact with family members in affected areas, our Restoring Family Links service may be able to help you reconnect with your loved ones.

Find out more and submit a tracing request: www.redcross.org.nz/RFL

Further information

• ICRC president: Widening hostilities across Middle East putting civilian lives in grave danger | International Committee of the Red Cross
• ICRC president urges respect for rules of war as major military escalation starts in the Middle East | International Committee of the Red Cross
• IFRC is working with local teams affected by the recent escalation of hostilities in Middle East | IFRC
• ICRC president calls for restraint and de-escalation amidst hostilities between Afghanistan and Pakistan | International Committee of the Red Cross 

Lead image: ICRC logo emblem, source International Committee of the Red Cross.