By Beyza Binnur Donmez
GENEVA (AA) - The UN refugee agency on Monday voiced "deep concern" over escalating conflict in the Middle East, warning that renewed violence could intensify displacement and strain already overstretched humanitarian systems.
"UNHCR is deeply concerned about the escalation of conflict in the Middle East and its impact on civilians and further displacement in the region," the agency said in a statement.
It said that many countries affected by the violence already host millions of refugees and internally displaced people, making them particularly vulnerable to further instability.
"Further violence risks overwhelming humanitarian capacities and placing additional pressure on host communities," the agency warned.
It echoed UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres' appeal for restraint and renewed diplomacy by voicing an "urgent call for dialogue and de-escalation, respect for human rights, the protection of civilians and full adherence to international law."
The warning comes amid heightened regional tensions, which began with the military strikes against Iran by the US and Israel, and were followed by retaliatory attacks by Tehran.