In an interview with EFE in Lisbon, the Secretary General of Amnesty International (AI), Agnès Callamard, expressed her concern about the situation in the Middle East, pointing out that there is currently an ongoing regional war that could trigger even more severe outbreaks of violence in various areas beyond Israel, Palestine, or Lebanon.
Callamard highlighted that Israel is conducting bombings that apparently are affecting civilians and civilian infrastructure in towns, cities, and neighborhoods. She also mentioned that there has been an attack on the banking system, which is presumed to be managed by Hezbollah, which could constitute a war crime by disproportionately impacting the Lebanese population.
On the other hand, the representative of Amnesty International referred to the rocket attacks carried out by the Lebanese Shiite group Hezbollah against Israel, which have also resulted in civilian deaths. Callamard emphasized that during Israel's offensive in Gaza, about 45,000 people have lost their lives, and 70% of the victims are minors.
The activist urged the need for a ceasefire in the region, highlighting that the only way to mitigate suffering and allow hostages to return to their families is to stop the bombings, cease the attacks, and facilitate the entry of humanitarian aid. Callamard also stressed that it is essential to release the hostages, regardless of whether a ceasefire agreement is reached.
Regarding the conflict in Yemen, Callamard pointed out the participation of countries like the United States and the United Kingdom and expressed her concern about the inhumane conditions in which hostages are detained, as well as the possibility that they could be victims of torture and airstrikes.
In summary, the representative of Amnesty International warned about the magnitude of the war crimes being committed in the region and advocated for urgent measures to protect the civilian population and ensure respect for human rights amidst this expanding regional conflict.
