Palestinians inspect the rubble of a building after it was struck by an Israeli airstrike, in Gaza City, Sunday, Oct. 8, 2023. (AP)

The International Committee of the Red Cross on Tuesday warned the Israeli government and Hamas militants in Gaza against targeting civilians warning that the process will only lead to further violence and hatred.

Israel continued to bombard Gaza on Tuesday as it vowed retaliation against the Hamas militant group – four days after militants stormed into Israel and murdered civilians at a festival.

The war has already claimed nearly 2,000 lives on both sides while Hamas and other militant groups in Gaza are also holding more than 150 soldiers and civilians hostage, according to the Israeli military.

In a statement, ICRC said the Israeli-Palestinian conflict has the potential to escalate dramatically and cause even more pain and anguish on all sides. 

The organization said the devastating violence and the “premeditated” killings of civilians, and the bombing in residential neighborhoods is alarming as a few voices of de-escalation have been heard.

Mirjana Spoljaric, President of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), said: “We urge the parties to respect their obligations under international humanitarian law and to take every possible step to prevent civilians from further harm.”

Spoljaric added that all sides must exercise restraint and protect civilian lives and property.

“Killing civilians and ill-treatment are prohibited by the Geneva Conventions. In addition, the Conventions demand that the wounded and sick are cared for. People detained must be treated humanely and with dignity,” he said further.

“Hostage-taking is prohibited under international humanitarian law and hostages should be immediately released unharmed. Critical infrastructure that people depend on to live – including electricity and water networks – must not be targeted.”

“Irrespective of any military siege, the authorities must ensure that civilians have access to basic necessities, including safe water, food and medical care.”

ICRC said its teams are working closely with the Magen David Adom (MDA) and the Palestine Red Crescent Society (PRCS) to assist those who are wounded or sick and in need.