Manama, Oct. 15 (BNA): The Arab Network of National Human Rights Institutions, chaired by the Kingdom of Bahrain’s National Institution for Human Rights (NIHR), issued a statement strongly condemning Houthi attacks targeting civilians and civilian facilities in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, including civil aviation facilities, which resulted in casualties and damage to civilian infrastructure.
The network said that targeting civilians and civilian infrastructure, or putting them at risk, constitutes a serious violation of fundamental human rights, particularly the rights to life, security and safety. It also contravenes international human rights law and international humanitarian law, especially provisions protecting civilians and civilian infrastructure during conflicts.
The network stressed that respecting the principles of distinction and proportionality, and taking the necessary precautions to avoid harming civilians, are fundamental obligations under international humanitarian law. These measures also help protect human rights and uphold human dignity.
It called for accountability for these violations, justice for victims and those affected, and measures to prevent similar attacks from recurring. The network emphasised that protecting civilians and safeguarding their security and safety must remain a priority under all circumstances, and that respect for human rights is fundamental to achieving security, stability and peace.
The statement was issued while Bahrain’s NIHR holds the presidency of the Arab Network of National Human Rights Institutions, which comprises 17 national institutions from the Gulf Cooperation Council states and other Arab countries. This reflects its broad regional representation and role in developing common human rights positions on regional issues and emphasising the need to respect international human rights standards and protect civilians.
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