Statement by the Global Call to Action Against Poverty (GCAP)

The war against Iran is wrong and it must be stopped immediately. The war is killing Iranians and people across the region from Israel to Lebanon to many other countries. The war is dangerous for the future of the region and also for the whole world.

The USA together with Israel started the war without any clear reason and without an exit strategy. It clearly violates international law and the UN Charter. Those responsible need to be held accountable – especially for attacks on civilian institutions.

The regime in Iran is one of the worst in the world – the killing of tens thousands of demonstrators in January was the latest of terrible human rights violations. However, this does not justify a war. If the regime continues it might become even more repressive than before.

The war will not solve any problem, but very likely exacerbate the existing problems and create new problems like the war in Iraq. The region is already facing more wars as in Lebanon and Afghanistan.

Beyond the region the war will make the world more insecure. Breaking international law is fast becoming a new normal. Russia’s war against Ukraine is another example. There are more and more wars in the world – from Sudan to DRC and in many other countries.

The economic and social impact will be visible around the world. Low-income countries and poor people will suffer most under growing prices for food and energy.

The war is the next step in the new era of US-American imperialism. To prevent this, we need better and stronger international cooperation. The countries, who are supporting the attack on Iran should desist from doing so and respect the international order.

Military expenditures are skyrocketing. This is taking resources away from social spending, the just transition and development. The theory that more weapons prevent war has been proven wrong. Rather they create more wars.

We join civil society organizations, peace movements, and human rights defenders across the world in the call on governments and international institutions to do all to end the war

• Immediately end the military action and de-escalate tensions
• Uphold international law and ensure accountability for violations
• Protect civilians and guarantee humanitarian access
• Support diplomatic efforts and multilateral initiatives for peace
• Strengthen international cooperation based on justice, human rights, and respect for international law

Download the statement here.