Acting in its capacity as a neutral and
independent intermediary, the ICRC conducted the operation in accordance with
its standard procedures. ICRC delegates based in Ethiopia accompanied the
civilians to a crossing point on the Mereb river between the towns of Rama,
in Ethiopia, and Adi Quala, in Eritrea. The group was met by ICRC staff based
in Eritrea, who placed them in the care of the Eritrean authorities.
Volunteers from the Ethiopian Red Cross Society and the Red Cross Society of
Eritrea also took part in the operation, helping to carry luggage and handing
out food and water. The ICRC will continue to assist people
affected by the recent armed conflict between Ethiopia and Eritrea and will
strive to ensure compliance with the rules and principles of international
humanitarian law, in particular the 1949 Geneva Conventions. For further information, please contact: Layla Berlemont, ICRC Addis Ababa, tel. ++2511 518366 |
