Geneva, Switzerland, March 23, 2026 — Center for Civilians in Conflict (CIVIC) expresses grave concern over the sharp escalation of hostilities across the Middle East, particularly in Iran and Lebanon, and the mounting toll on civilians. Reports indicate a significant rise in civilian casualties, including women, children, and medical personnel, as well as widespread destruction of and damage to homes, schools, and critical infrastructure. 

“What we are witnessing is not just escalation, it is a normalization of civilian harm,” said Hichem Khadhraoui, CIVIC’s Executive Director. “The use of explosive weapons in populated areas is driving predictable and devastating consequences, killing civilians, destroying essential infrastructure, and placing entire communities at risk. All parties must change course immediately.” 

In Iran and across the region, US, Israeli, and Iranian airstrikes, as well as missile and drone attacks in cities and towns, are causing deaths and injuries, damaging essential infrastructure, and forcing families to flee their homes. In Lebanon, more than one million people—around 19 percent of the population—are displaced. In Iran, more than 3 million people have reportedly been displaced since the start of the conflict on February 28. 

Recent Israeli and Iranian strikes on critical infrastructure, including oil and gas facilities such as the South and North Pars field, raise additional concerns about environmental damage and long-term public health risks. Iranian strikes targeting Israeli and US interests in Gulf countries have resulted in repeated interceptions of projectiles over populated areas, increasing risks to civilians. 

Damage to civilian infrastructure and essential services—including healthcare and communications—is further compounding the humanitarian crisis. Attacks on medical facilities and hospital evacuations are limiting access to life-saving care, while communication disruptions hinder civilians’ ability to seek safety. 

These developments reflect a pattern of escalating harm that underscores the urgent need for de-escalation and the prioritization of civilian protection in all military planning and operations. 

CIVIC calls on all parties to: 

• Prioritize the protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure in all military operations; 

• Adhere strictly to international humanitarian law, including the principles of distinction, proportionality, and precaution; 

• Cease the use of explosive weapons in populated areas, given the foreseeable and devastating impact on civilians; 

• Ensure safe, rapid, and unimpeded humanitarian access to affected communities; 

• Increase transparency and accountability for civilian harm, including thorough investigations into civilian harm reports and possible violations of international humanitarian law. 

CIVIC further urges the international community to take immediate action to de-escalate hostilities and to ensure that the protection of civilians remains central to all diplomatic and military efforts. 

CIVIC stands ready to work with all stakeholders to support practical measures that prevent civilian harm, improve responses to those affected, and ensure accountability for violations. 

Center for Civilians in Conflict (CIVIC) is an international humanitarian NGO dedicated to protecting civilians in conflict. We work with affected communities, armed actors, and decision makers to prevent and respond to harm to civilians and make their protection a global priority.  

Media Contacts:  

• Global – Hajer Naili, Director of Communications, CIVIC – [email protected], +97431143955, WhatsApp: +19178895982  
• Amman – Stephanie Yousef, Senior Program Coordinator, MENA, CIVIC – [email protected]