The UNHCR said Saturday that the intensity of the attacks between Israel and Iran is already triggering population movements in both countries.
Some people from Tehran and other parts of Iran have crossed into neighboring countries while shelling has caused people in Israel to seek shelter elsewhere in the country and, in some cases, abroad.
The agency urged states in the region to respect the right of people to seek safety where needed and to facilitate humanitarian access.
“This region has already endured more than its share of war, loss, and displacement — we cannot allow another refugee crisis to take root,” the UN High Commissioner for Refugees, Filippo Grandi, said.
“The time to de-escalate is right now. Once people are forced to flee, there’s no quick way back and all too often, the consequences last for generations.”
