Amman, March 2 (Petra) - The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) expressed deep concern on Monday over the escalating intensity of the conflict in the Middle East and its impact on civilians, causing further displacement in the region.

The agency said many of the countries affected by this conflict host millions of refugees and internally displaced persons. It added that any aggravation of violence would exhaust humanitarian response efforts and capacities and place additional burdens on host communities.

The UNHCR reiterated the United Nations Secretary-General's urgent call for dialogue, de-escalation, respect for human rights, protection of civilians, and full commitment to international law.

//Petra// AF