Statement: All political and diplomatic means must be utilized to prevent increased civilian harm and further regional escalation - 13 NGOs warn

AMMAN - 16 April:  Recent escalations in the Middle East are unprecedented and risk regional conflagration, threatening the lives of millions of civilians, say a group of leading NGOs working in the region. 

To avoid the security situation spiraling out of control all efforts must be made to ensure de-escalation through political and diplomatic means alone, the group warns.

The 13 undersigned humanitarian NGOs operating in the Middle East are deeply concerned about the prospect of further regional escalation. A regional conflict would be catastrophic for the Middle East where millions are already affected by existing crises due to conflict, displacement, poverty and climate change. 

All involved parties and those with influence over them need to immediately work towards de-escalation. We remind the involved parties that international law is non-negotiable and must be respected at all times. 

Drawing on our extensive collective experience in the region, we understand that crises in the Middle East often have far-reaching consequences beyond its borders. A regional conflict would likely result in significant global ramifications, including forced displacement and migration, disruptions to global supply chains and impacts on energy supplies.

Recent events are closely linked to the ongoing conflict in Gaza, which, after more than six months, continues to witness unabated violations of international humanitarian law. 

We, the undersigned, once again reiterate our collective call for an immediate and permanent ceasefire in Gaza to prevent further human suffering and to de-escalate tensions in the region.