Bond statement on the escalation of conflict in the Middle East

Bond has released a statement on the ongoing escalation of conflict between Israel and Hezbollah and the wider spill-over of conflict and instability in the region.

An immediate cessation of violence is needed to protect civilians in Lebanon and Israel. The ongoing conflict has already displaced thousands and destroyed critical infrastructure like hospitals and schools in Lebanon, further worsening the humanitarian situation in the country amid a severe economic downturn.

This violence must be viewed in the broader context of Gaza and the West Bank, with regional stability at risk. Alongside our members and their partners in the region, we call on the international community, especially the UK, to urgently increase humanitarian funding and lead diplomatic efforts to secure a ceasefire and act to prevent even more regional spill-over.

Protecting civilians and ensuring humanitarian access is paramount, alongside strict adherence to international law. Political and diplomatic action is equally crucial to de-escalate the conflict and address its root causes. We call on all parties to respect international humanitarian law and to take immediate steps to de-escalate the conflict.

The UK and its partners must take a comprehensive approach to combining humanitarian assistance, diplomacy, accountability and adherence to international humanitarian law to address the crisis and work towards lasting peace and stability in the region.

ENDS.

Notes for editors

• Many of Bond’s member organisations are actively working in the region providing humanitarian assistance to civilians.
  

• For further information or interviews with our spokespeople please contact Jess Salter at [email protected] or call 07392972411.

• Bond is the UK network for organisations working in international development. Bond unites and supports a diverse network of over 350 civil society organisations from across the UK, and allies to help eradicate global poverty, inequality and injustice.

• Read Bond’s statement on the potential escalation between Israel-Hezbollah from June 2024.