Mushikiwabo voices concern over escalating Middle East conflict

The Secretary-General of the Organisation internationale de la Francophonie (OIF) has expressed deep concern over the escalating military tensions in the Middle East, warning of serious consequences for civilian populations and several Francophonie member states in the region. ALSO READ: How Rwandans in Middle East are keeping safe In a statement issued on March 4, Louise Mushikiwabo deplored the loss of life and highlighted the growing humanitarian risks stemming from the ongoing hostilities between US, Israel and Iran. “The Secretary-General deplores the loss of life and is deeply concerned about the dramatic consequences of this situation for civilian populations,” the statement reads. The OIF noted that the escalation is affecting a number of its member countries, including Lebanon, Cyprus, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar. Mushikiwabo reaffirmed the organisation's “full solidarity with all the countries and populations of the region affected,” and called on all parties to exercise restraint. “She urges stakeholders to exercise restraint, to prioritize diplomatic means of resolving this crisis, and to ensure respect for international law in all circumstances, particularly with regard to the protection of civilian populations,” the statement added. ALSO READ: How the world reacted to US, Israeli strikes on Iran The declaration comes amid an escalation in the conflict that started on February 28 when the United States and Israel launched strikes on Iran, prompting retaliation from Tehran. The US and Israel launched coordinated strikes on Iran following what the Israeli military described as months of joint planning. US President Donald Trump characterized the military campaign as “massive and ongoing,” warning that American lives could be at risk. Trump also accused Tehran of attempting to rebuild its nuclear programme following previous US strikes, allegations Iran has denied, maintaining that its nuclear activities are strictly for peaceful purposes.

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Mushikiwabo voices concern over escalating Middle East conflict