Over the last week, Human Rights Watch has closely monitored unfolding events in the Middle East as the United States and Israel on February 28 carried out airstrikes on Iran, which retaliated with strikes against Israel and Gulf states.
As in all conflicts, HRW urges all parties to respect international humanitarian law, also known as the laws of war, and prioritize the protection of civilians.
Meanwhile, the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah continues to escalate, also putting civilians at grave risk. On March 2, Hezbollah fired rockets and drones into northern Israel, after which the Israeli military carried out over 70 strikes across Lebanon. The Israeli military has since called for widespread evacuations in southern Lebanon, raising serious risks of violations of the laws of war.
We are also calling on government officials around the world, including in Europe as well as Canada and Australia, to take a stronger stand to uphold human rights during the crisis. And following comments earlier this week by US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth where he referenced “stupid rules of engagement,” US officials should reaffirm compliance with the laws of war.
Human Rights Watch will continue to monitor the situation in the region. You can follow our latest reporting across the Middle East here.
