The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has expressed its concern for the safety of tens of thousands of civilians trapped in the fighting or fleeing the violence raging in the southern governorate of Deraa.
The ICRC's regional director for the Near and Middle East, Robert Mardini, called "urgently on all parties involved in the fighting in Daraa, Sweida and Kuneitra to show restraint and do their utmost to spare civilians and people no longer taking part in hostilities, as well as the infrastructure essential to their survival." He added that the Committee was receiving " reports that people are fleeing as the front lines move." The ICRC called on "the fighting parties as well as neighboring countries to allow civilians to reach safety and access vital services such as healthcare. Civilians should, as always, have the opportunity to flee violence and seek refuge and protection elsewhere."
The ICRC said it was ready to provide emergency assistance to displaced persons, including treating the wounded.