Iranian Foreign Minister Accuses Israel Of Committing War Crimes During UN Address

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has affirmed that Iran's military will vigorously protect the nation's sovereignty and territorial integrity. Speaking at the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva, he emphasised that Iran has faced unjustifiable aggression, equating any justification of this aggression to complicity. He highlighted the severity of the situation, particularly concerning potential environmental and public health risks.

Araghchi expressed disappointment over a missed opportunity for a promising agreement with the United States regarding Iran's nuclear programme, initially scheduled for June 15. He condemned attacks on Iran's nuclear facilities as "a major war crime," stressing the severe implications for both environment and public health. The Iranian diplomat urged members and observers of the Human Rights Council to oppose this injustice.

The foreign minister accused Israel of launching an unprovoked attack against Iran, violating Article 2, paragraph 4 of the United Nations Charter. He described this as a direct challenge to the principles underpinning the council. Araghchi called attention to what he termed an "unjust war" imposed on Iran since June 13, involving illegal operations against various groups within Iran.

He detailed how Israel's surprise attacks have resulted in numerous casualties among Iranian civilians, including non-commissioned military personnel and university professors. These attacks have targeted residential areas, public infrastructure, hospitals, medical centres, and even Iran's Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Despite being under International Atomic Energy Agency supervision, Iran's peaceful nuclear facilities were also attacked.

Araghchi underscored that as a founding member of the United Nations system, Iran expects support from other UN member countries in upholding justice and international law principles. He insisted that Israel's actions should not distort the reality of Iran being brutally invaded. The foreign minister argued that these attacks occurred amidst diplomatic efforts and represented a betrayal of diplomacy.

The Iranian diplomat criticised these actions as an unprecedented blow to international law foundations and the UN system. He reiterated that such aggression undermines diplomatic processes and violates fundamental human rights principles. Araghchi called on the international community to recognise and address this injustice.

The situation remains tense as Iran seeks global support to counter what it perceives as unlawful aggression. The country continues to advocate for adherence to international laws and norms while defending its sovereignty against external threats.

With inputs from WAM