UN Human Rights Council 61: UK Statement for the Urgent Debate on the Minab School, Iran
UK Statement on “Protection of Children and Educational Institutions in International Armed Conflicts: The Aerial Attacks on Shajareh Tayyebeh Girls’ School in Minab, Iran, as a Grave Breach of International Humanitarian Law and International Human Rights Law”. Delivered by UK Human Rights Ambassador, Eleanor Sanders.
Thank you, Mr President,
We are appalled by all reports of civilian deaths – in Minab in Iran, and across the region.
Innocent civilians should never be caught in the crossfire. Our thoughts are with the victims and their families. We support all action that will help bring a swift end to this conflict.
Mr President, even in times of conflict we cannot ignore Iran’s own human rights record, which remains dire. Just two months ago, this Council met to condemn the brutal killing of thousands of Iranian protestors exercising their right to peaceful protest.
Iran’s abhorrent use of the death penalty, and continued internet restrictions, fuel cycles of repression for the people of Iran.
The UK will continue to work with international partners, including the UN Fact Finding Mission and the Special Rapporteur, to hold Iran to account for its repression of women and girls, religious and ethnic minorities, and human rights defenders.
We know it takes huge bravery to protest and to speak out in the face of this oppression, especially for women and girls who continue to endure severe repression in their daily lives.
Mr President, the UK demands that the Iranian authorities fully respect human rights and fundamental freedoms of all people in Iran.
Thank you.
