The attacks in Iran and the regional spillover of the crisis are fueling the already ongoing humanitarian crises, with an impact on civilian populations and critical infrastructure. Reports from the ground describe a situation of extreme precariousness, with thousands of people forced to flee their homes in search of safety.
INTERSOS, present with its teams throughout the region, expresses its utmost concern for the safety of civilians and humanitarian personnel. Despite the challenges, INTERSOS remains operational in Iran, Lebanon, Iraq, Jordan, Syria, and Yemen, adapting its interventions to meet the most urgent needs.
The situation in Iran has taken a dramatic turn following the wave of airstrikes hitting various cities, including the capital, Tehran. In response to the strikes, the national airspace has been closed and a state of emergency across multiple regions has been declared. INTERSOS and its partners are continuing providing services to the vulnerable population in the provinces of Hormozgan, Kerman and Yazd.
In Lebanon, some of our own staff members in the south and east, as well as in the southern suburbs of Beirut, along with their families and the communities we serve, are forced to leave their homes yet for another time. While movements are currently limited for security reasons, INTERSOS maintains critical service provision throughout the country.
In Iraq and Syria, we continue to adapt our operations ensuring the regular provision of all essential services.
In Jordan and Yemen, despite movement restrictions and partially closed airspaces, our bases remain open and operations continue.
Our absolute priority remains ensuring critical services to the affected populations, even within a context of general uncertainty. Civilians are paying the highest price.
INTERSOS asks all parties involved in the conflict to respect the International Humanitarian Law. It is imperative that the protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure will be guaranteed. Civilians are not a target.
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INTERSOS is operational in Iran, Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, Iraq and Yemen providing protection, health, shelter and WASH (Water, Sanitation and Health) services.