Tehran: An Iranian NGO, the Center for Peace and Environment, has called for international action to halt wars and prevent them from escalating into global environmental crises, warning of the devastating impacts conflicts have already inflicted on people and natural resources, particularly in West Asia.

According to Islamic Republic News Agency, the appeal was made in a statement issued on Sunday at an international seminar titled ‘Shadow of War on People and Nature in the Region’ held in Tehran. The event marked the International Day for Preventing the Exploitation of the Environment in War and Armed Conflict, observed annually on November 6.

The statement highlighted the severe environmental consequences of the Israeli war on Gaza, as well as the regime’s 12-day war of aggression against Iran in June this year. It called for international condemnation of such conflicts due to their ecological impacts, which the center said undermine prospects for lasting peace.

The statement condemned the attack against the nuclear facilities of the Islamic Republic of Iran and highlighted the violation of international law. It emphasized the inherent risks to populations and ecosystems due to radiological contamination and potential harm to health and security.

The 12-day war was noted for causing serious environmental threats, including air pollution, threats to soil and water resources, and destruction of sensitive ecosystems. The center pointed out that such hostilities have heightened public-health vulnerabilities and ecosystem fragility.

The statement criticized the insufficiency and ineffectiveness of existing international mechanisms in preventing environmental destruction during armed conflict. It highlighted the lack of binding mechanisms, accountability structures, and rapid environmental response systems.

To address these issues, the center called for the establishment of a stronger legal regime for environmental protection in armed conflicts. This includes drafting a binding international convention, defining state responsibilities, and strengthening international adjudicating bodies.

The regional and global impacts of environmental destruction in Middle Eastern armed conflicts were highlighted, demonstrating that the consequences of radioactive materials and explosive remnants transcend borders and pose intergenerational harms.

The statement expressed grave concern over the environmental destruction in Gaza, resulting in severe contamination of coastal waters, destruction of natural habitats, and the collapse of essential infrastructure. These conditions violate international humanitarian and environmental laws.

The center appealed to the international community to condemn military actions targeting environmentally hazardous infrastructure, engage in active diplomacy, and establish compensation mechanisms for affected populations.

Finally, the Center for Peace and Environment declared its commitment to monitoring the consequences of the 12-day war and preparing expert reports, emphasizing that sustainable peace is unattainable without environmental protection.