While thousands of foreign nationals are leaving, the Lebanese fear the further escalation of this war once foreigners have left the country. Civilians in the southern suburbs of Beirut and in the southern part of the country face water and food shortages and will depend on humanitarian aid. Hundreds of thousands of Iraqi refugees who had arrived in the country over the past years and whose situation remains precarious face once again the consequences of violence. The humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip has reached dramatic proportions leaving the population in darkness without electricity, food or water.

ICMC believes that no violence, bombings nor hostage taking will ever contribute to establishing a peace process. They are the weapons of a war-oriented logic rather than elements of a constructive response to the conflict. ICMC deeply regrets that after a week of hostilities no peace building efforts have resulted and that no signs of positive response to the government pleas for an immediate ceasefire between Israel and the Hezbollah militants have been registered.

With H.E. Cardinal Renato Rafaelle Martino, President of the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace, ICMC emphasizes that no conflict can be considered solely at a local or regional level. Consequences of this situation will not only affect the quality of life of millions in the region but also impact the global economy and politics. Oil and food prices have already increased by over 30% in the past 48 hours. ICMC therefore believes that the present situation calls for urgent and international political action.

An immediate ceasefire, the opening of humanitarian corridors to serve those suffering under the rapidly deteriorating humanitarian situation, and the start of negotiations at both regional and international levels to prevent further escalation and to restore a constructive peace building process are requested.

ICMC is presently looking for ways to continue and secure its refugee programmes in Lebanon. Though international staff had to be evacuated, activities will continue thanks to the support of local partners.

Johan Ketelers
Secretary General