The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) is an impartial, neutral and independent organization whose exclusively humanitarian mission is to protect the lives and dignity of victims of war and internal violence and to provide them with assistance. It directs and coordinates the international relief activities conducted by the Movement in situations of conflict. It also endeavours to prevent suffering by promoting and strengthening humanitarian law and universal humanitarian principles.

Established in 1863, the ICRC is at the origin of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement. MIFTAH conducted an interview with the head of ICRC delegation in Israel and the occupied territories, Francois Bëllon.

Q. The Red Cross provides humanitarian assistance to those in conflict, but never takes sides and remains neutral. Is this always the case, if so how difficult is it for staff members to keep emotions in check and how tempting is it for them to speak out against one party?

A. Neutrality is a fundamental working principle for the ICRC all over the world. It is not an end in itself but a means. Our primary objective is to enjoy respect and credibility with all parties involved in a conflict and get unhindered access to people in need of humanitarian assistance. It is essential that we behave in an unbiased, neutral way and be perceived as such by all parties in a conflict.

The ICRC staff - from the top management to field delegates - has to refrain from taking sides. Of course, we are human beings, in permanent interaction with the victims, with our feelings and emotions ... It is sometimes difficult not to take sides and refrain from expressing personal opinions publicly. But, it is absolutely essential to do so for the sake of the people who need our assistance.

Q. How serious is the humanitarian crisis that the Palestinians are facing? How much worse could the situation get? Is the future bleak or is there a hope of averting this alarming crisis?

A. The ICRC is very much concerned about the dramatic consequences of violence and the impact of closures and prolonged curfews on the living conditions of Palestinians. As a response to the increased humanitarian needs, we more than doubled our budget this year in order to cover the expenses of new and extended assistance programmers.

It is difficult to predict how the situation will evolve. But we believe that the humanitarian response - i.e. injecting more aid and assistance is only a temporary solution. A long-term solution is to be found in the realm of politics.

Q. Has the Red Cross been obstructed or faced with obstacles arising from actions by Israelis or Palestinians. If so, what are the difficulties and problems that the Red Cross has faced and continues to face as a result? What is the Red Cross doing to overcome the difficulties on the ground?

A. Last Spring, we faced many problems in terms of access to victims. We called upon all parties, and notably upon Israeli authorities, to respect our humanitarian mandate and the medical mission at all costs.

Our working relationships have slightly improved since. However, curfews and military operations are still hindering our work. Furthermore, our national staff is still largely restricted in its movements. The Palestine Red Crescent Society, which is our partner and with which we cooperate extensively, is still confronted with huge problems. We intervene on their behalf and co-ordinate with the Israeli Civil administration, in order to ensure the safe passage of ambulances.

As in all places where we are operational, the ICRC tries to maintain frank and decent working relationships with the authorities in charge, in order to solve problems obstructing our daily humanitarian work.

Q. The International Red Cross has, on several occasions, called upon the Israeli authorities, urging them not to obstruct its work. In the absence of clear public condemnations or denunciations, did you notice any significant change in the attitude of those who violate the basic principles of International humanitarian law?

A. It is quite unusual for the ICRC to condemn publicly. We only do that in extreme cases, when all other means have failed, always keeping in mind the interest of the victims. We send regularly confidential representations to the Israeli authorities reminding them of the necessity to respect provisions of International humanitarian law. The President of the ICRC, Mr. Jakob Kellenberger, has visited the area at the beginning of October.. He met with top-level Israeli and Palestinian officials and conveyed to them our worries and concerns. We hope that our unwavering efforts, through permanent, bilateral and constructive dialogue with all parties involved, will be fruitful and will ultimately put an end to, or at least limit, violations.