ICRC: Yemen must respect human life

Mar 19, 2011

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has expressed serious concern over the loss of life and the injuries that have resulted from the escalation in violence.

“The ICRC calls upon the authorities, demonstrators and all others involved to respect human life and dignity at all times,” said Jean-Nicolas Marti, the head the ICRC delegation in the country.

The organization has been closely monitoring events in Sana'a and other cities in Yemen as they have unfolded over the past two months, an ICRC statement said on Friday.

Security forces must adhere to international human rights laws and international standards governing the use of force in their efforts to restore law and order, it said, adding that those arrested and detained must be treated humanely.

“We have been providing support for the humanitarian work carried out by the Yemen Red Crescent in the capital Sana'a and other major cities by donating first-aid and other supplies that can be used to treat the injured on the spot,” said Marti.

Yemen, the poorest country in the Arab world and destabilized by tribal wars and widespread poverty, has been hit by weeks of protests trying to shake loose President Ali Abdullah Saleh's 32-year grip on power.

Several opposition members argue that Saleh's long-promised reforms have never materialized.

Despite massive nationwide rallies, Saleh has said he would stay in power until the end of his term in 2013.

Source: Press T.V