A coalition of 342 civil society organisations calls on all parties to immediately cease attacks on civilians in the Middle East and uphold international law. The global coalition condemns the rapidly escalating violence and widening regional conflict.
In a joint statement, the organisations warn that the intensifying hostilities by multiple state and non-state actors are placing millions of civilians at grave risk. Devastating humanitarian consequences have been unfolding across the region.
Since 28 February 2026, coordinated military strikes and subsequent retaliatory attacks have driven a sharp escalation of the conflict. Missile and drone strikes, air campaigns, and cross-border hostilities have caused havoc across several countries in the Gulf and Levant.
Civilians have borne the brunt of violence. Attacks have damaged or destroyed homes, schools, hospitals, energy infrastructure, and vital water systems. One of the most devastating incidents cited is the strike on a girls’ elementary school in Minab, Iran, which reportedly killed at least 165 people, most of them young children.
“The scale and trajectory of this conflict are deeply alarming,” the statement reads. “Civilians and civilian infrastructure must never be targets. All parties must strictly comply with international humanitarian law and international human rights law.”
The organisations also expressed grave concern over the broader regional impact of the war, including:
- Widespread displacement and civilian casualties
- Damage to critical infrastructure and essential services
- Threats to global energy supplies and economic stability
- Environmental and public health risks linked to attacks on oil facilities
In addition to the humanitarian crisis, the coalition warned of a shrinking civic space across the region. Human rights defenders, journalists, and civil society actors are reportedly facing increased restrictions, intimidation, and legal repercussions for documenting the conflict or sharing information.
The statement also raises concerns about:
- Arrests and prosecutions of individuals for sharing war-related information
- The postponement of democratic processes, including elections
- Risks faced by detainees and imprisoned activists in active conflict zones
- Ongoing humanitarian crises in areas such as Gaza
Call to Action
The coalition calls for urgent and coordinated international action, including:
- An immediate de-escalation of hostilities and a ceasefire
- Prioritisation of diplomacy and dialogue over military escalation
- Increased efforts by the international community to prevent further conflict
- Unhindered humanitarian access to affected populations
- Protection of civil society actors and fundamental freedoms
- Independent monitoring and documentation of human rights violations
“At this critical moment, the protection of life and human dignity must remain paramount,” the statement concludes. “We stand in solidarity with affected communities across the Middle East and reiterate the urgent need for peace, accountability, and respect for human rights.”
The signatories emphasise that sustainable peace in the region must be grounded in justice, accountability, and respect for democratic values shaped by the people themselves.
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* Read the full statement in English | Arabic
