International Red Cross Seeks Safe Corridor in South Ossetia to Treat and Evacuate the Wounded
by John Little on 8/08/2008There are conflicting reports about the number of casualties but given the intensity of the fighting it’s possible that a large number of people need assistance. In fact, it sounds quite bad:
Red Cross spokeswoman, Anna Nelson, says it is too dangerous for aid workers to move around freely, so it is difficult to get an accurate picture of how many people have been killed and wounded.
“It is a situation where ambulances cannot move, hospitals are reported to be overflowing, surgeries are taking place in corridors, people are hiding out in their basements,” she said. “There is no electricity, no communications, no access to basic supplies. So, it is a worrying situation. And, we also in addition call on all sides to respect International Humanitarian Law and to not target civilians, to ensure that medical transport and medical facilities can treat wounded as necessary.”
The Red Cross says combatants must distinguish, at all times, between the civilian population and those taking direct part in the hostilities. It says attacks that are indiscriminate or directly targeting the civilian population, are strictly prohibited under International Humanitarian Law.
Keep an eye on the ICRC Media Centre for updates.
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