Middle east: Amnesty International has issued a stern warning to Israel, the US, and the Islamic Republic of Iran, urging them to immediately cease unlawful attacks on energy infrastructure that provide essential services such as electricity, heating, and running water. The organization highlighted the severe risks posed to civilian populations and the environment by such attacks.
According to Amnesty International, recent Israeli-US air strikes have targeted multiple fuel storage and distribution facilities in Iran, while Iran's military has conducted attacks affecting fuel depots and oil and gas infrastructure across several Gulf states. Heba Morayef, Regional Director for the Middle East and North Africa at Amnesty, emphasized that these strikes carry a substantial risk of violating international humanitarian law, potentially amounting to war crimes due to the predictable and devastating civilian harm they cause.
International humanitarian law requires all parties to take feasible precautions to minimize civilian harm and avoid disproportionate damage to civilian objects. This includes considering the indirect adverse effects on civilians, such as exposure to toxic chemicals from damaged infrastructure. Under these laws, an oil refinery can only be targeted if it is contributing to military action, and even then, all efforts must be made to avoid collateral damage.
In Iran, video footage and eyewitness accounts describe the aftermath of Israeli-US strikes on fuel depots in Tehran and other areas, resulting in massive fires and oil-tainted rainfall. Iranian authorities have warned of the toxic chemicals released into the air, posing serious health risks to millions. The Israeli military has confirmed these attacks, citing military objectives.
Recent incidents in Gulf countries have seen Iranian forces targeting energy facilities, disrupting operations and causing casualties. In Qatar, attacks led to the suspension of LNG production, while in Saudi Arabia and the UAE, drone interceptions caused fires at key oil facilities.
The impact on commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz has been significant, affecting access to energy and food supplies, with the High Commissioner for Human Rights calling for investment in renewable energy. The ongoing conflict has resulted in numerous casualties, with hundreds killed in Iran, the Gulf, Lebanon, and Israel.
Amnesty International calls on all parties to prioritize the protection of civilians and adhere to international humanitarian laws in their military operations, emphasizing the critical role energy infrastructure plays in maintaining essential services and preventing food insecurity.