Amnesty International says the United Nations is failing to take into account the humanitarian and human rights consequences of a war on Iraq.

It warns military action could lead to a massive population displacement crisis similar to that of the 1991 Gulf War.

"Regrettably, human rights concerns in this context have not been examined by the Security Council," the human rights organisation's head Irene Khan said on Tuesday.

Iraqis already suffer food shortages

"Such human rights and humanitarian consequences must be carefully considered and balanced against the threat that Iraq is said to constitute to peace and security."

In particular the organisation has called on the UN Security Council to examine:

The impact of military action on the human rights of the Iraqi population, including the effects of economic sanctions in the event of disruption of food distribution and damage to essential infrastructure

The risk of violations of international humanitarian law, including direct attacks on civilians, the use of "human shields" and attacks on civilian objects

The impact of the use of chemical, biological and nuclear weapons

The organisation is particularly concerned the Iraqi authorities and armed opposition groups may carry out reprisals during a war.

Amnesty International is calling for the deployment of human rights monitors in Iraq.