We Are Ready to Act as a Neutral Mediator on the Tense Situation at the Border, Says the Red Cross

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has expressed its concern regarding the humanitarian impact of heightened military activities along the Armenia-Azerbaijan border since July 12, 2023. Such a situation poses additional risks for the residents of border communities by limiting their access to means of livelihood.

The ICRC has voiced its concerns to the parties in the conflict, reminding them of the necessity to always differentiate between those directly involved in hostilities and civilians.

“We urge the parties to respect the rules of international humanitarian law and to take all precautionary measures to save civilian lives and ensure the safety of infrastructure, including schools, residential, and medical facilities,” said Martin Schuepp, ICRC’s Director of Operations for the region. “We are ready to act as a neutral mediator and support those affected by the recent tensions.”

The ICRC has been working in the region since 1992 in connection with the Karabakh conflict. Through its delegations in Baku and Yerevan, the ICRC supports communities living near the Armenia-Azerbaijan border. Additionally, the ICRC is engaged in efforts to clarify the fates of missing persons and assist their families, as well as visiting detainees and acting as a neutral mediator to support the transfer and repatriation of released individuals.