Hostilities across the Middle East have escalated rapidly following unlawful attacks on Iran by the United States and Israel, and Iran’s subsequent retaliatory strikes across the region.
What began as attacks on Iranian territory has now spread across multiple countries, placing civilians across the region at grave risk.
In Lebanon, more than one million people have been forced to flee their homes following escalating attacks and widespread evacuation orders. Entire communities have been displaced, deepening an already severe humanitarian crisis and raising urgent concerns under international law.
Homes, schools and essential infrastructure across the region have been damaged or destroyed. Civilians have been killed and injured.
This escalation is also unfolding while Palestinians in Gaza continue to endure catastrophic conditions as Israel’s genocide against Palestinians devastates civilian life. Millions remain displaced, with severely restricted access to food, water and medical care.
Under international law, civilians must never be targeted.
Amnesty International has found that the United States carried out an unlawful strike on Shajareh Tayyebeh Elementary School in Minab, Iran, violating international humanitarian law. Amnesty is calling on all parties to end unlawful attacks, including deliberate, indiscriminate or disproportionate attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure.
Australia was among the first countries to publicly support the United States and Israel following the strikes on Iran.
Now, the Australian government must use its diplomatic influence to help prevent further escalation, oppose the occupation of southern Lebanon, and prioritise the protection of civilians across the region.
Email Foreign Minister Penny Wong and urge Australia to act now.
