The United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) has taken a decisive step, condemning Iran’s recent military strikes against Gulf states and Jordan. During its 44th meeting at the 61st session, the Council passed a resolution by consensus, denouncing the attacks as “egregious,” “unprovoked and deliberate.” The resolution demands that Tehran provide full and prompt reparations to victims, raising significant humanitarian, legal, and economic concerns amidst the regional conflict that has persisted for four weeks.
The resolution, proposed by Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Jordan, calls on Iran to immediately cease its attacks. These nations have voiced concerns over the strikes targeting civilian areas and critical infrastructure, including ports, energy facilities, and airports. As a result, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights was tasked with monitoring the situation and reporting on further developments (JURIST – News).
Diplomats expressed alarm about the implications of these assaults on regional and global security. Jordan described the strikes as a “flagrant breach of international law,” while Kuwait’s ambassador highlighted the threat Iran’s actions pose to international legal order. Meanwhile, the United Arab Emirates accused Tehran of pursuing destabilizing policies. The UN High Commissioner, Volker Türk, reported that Iran’s deployment of drones and missiles has resulted in civilian casualties and significant damage.
Adding a layer of complexity to the situation, Iran’s ambassador, Ali Bahreini, argued that Iran’s military actions were aimed at countering threats linked to Israel, cautioning against ignoring these threats. This regional turmoil has also disrupted maritime traffic in the crucial Strait of Hormuz, affecting global markets by delaying critical supplies of essentials like food and medicine. This disruption, in turn, has disproportionately impacted lower-income countries.
Separately, the Council plans to discuss the airstrike on Shajareh Tayyebeh Girls’ School in Iran, focusing on the protection of children and educational institutions. UN Secretary-General António Guterres has urged all parties to halt hostilities and pursue diplomatic solutions, warning of an “out of control” situation.
The UN Security Council had previously passed a resolution condemning Iran’s attacks, emphasizing violations of international law, especially the UN Charter’s prohibition of force against another state’s territorial integrity. The African Union has also voiced concerns about the regional instability and risks to civilians. However, civil society organizations have warned against selective condemnation, stressing the need for consistent accountability for violations by all parties involved.