The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) says fighting in urban areas is taking a heavy toll on civilians in Baidoa, South West State of Somalia.
Following heavy clashes reported in the city yesterday, dozens of casualties were reported at hospitals, according to the ICRC.
The violence has raised renewed concerns over the impact of armed confrontations on civilians, particularly those living in densely populated areas.
The clashes reportedly caused injuries and disruption to residents, with medical facilities receiving a significant number of people wounded in the fighting.
The ICRC has stressed the need for all parties to the conflict to respect international humanitarian law and take all possible measures to protect civilians and civilian infrastructure.
The latest developments come amid heightened security tensions in Baidoa, where residents experienced fear and uncertainty following the outbreak of fighting.
Humanitarian organizations continue to monitor the situation and assess the needs of affected civilians, while calls grow for restraint and the protection of civilians caught in the conflict.
