Geneva, 14 April 2024
I strongly condemn the wide-scale attacks launched last night by Iran against Israel. Such missile and drone attacks had
the potential to cause significant harm beyond military targets and put civilians at risk. This only adds fuel to the
fire in the whole region. I remind all parties of their obligations under international humanitarian law and
international human rights law.
I am deeply worried about the potential humanitarian and human rights cost if this escalation leads to wider conflict in
the Middle East. I urge all parties to take steps to de-escalate the situation, and call on third States, in particular
those with influence, to do all in their power to ensure there is no further deterioration in an already extremely
precarious situation.