Abu Dhabi: Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said that his country's armed forces will defend Iran's sovereignty and territorial integrity with all might and by all means. In an address to the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva on Friday, the top Iranian diplomat stated that Iran has been subjected to an aggression that cannot be justified in any way, emphasizing that "the justification for the aggression is equal to complicity."
According to Emirates News Agency, Araghchi expressed his concerns over a potential agreement with the United States regarding Iran's nuclear program, which was set to be discussed on June 15. He condemned the attack against Iran's nuclear facilities, labeling it "a major war crime" due to the significant risk of environmental and public health disasters it poses.
Addressing the council, Araghchi urged all members and observers of the Human Rights Council to oppose what he described as a grave injustice. He accused the Israeli regime of launching an unprovoked aggression against Iran, which he claimed violated the fourth paragraph of Article 2 of the United Nations Charter, challenging the foundational principles of the council.
Araghchi detailed the impact of what he termed an "unjust war" imposed on Iran since June 13. He alleged that Israel has conducted illegal operations against various groups, including military personnel, university professors, and civilians. He reported hundreds of casualties resulting from Israel's surprise attacks, which targeted residential areas, public infrastructure, hospitals, and even the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. He highlighted the targeting of Iran's peaceful nuclear facilities, which he noted are under the full supervision of the International Atomic Energy Agency, emphasizing that such attacks are prohibited under international law.
He called upon United Nations member countries to uphold justice, the rule of law, and the principles of humanity and morality, as Iran, a founding member of the UN system, faces what he described as a brutal invasion. Araghchi warned against allowing Israel and its supporters to distort the facts of the situation.
Finally, he argued that the attack occurred amidst a diplomatic process, labeling it a betrayal of diplomacy and a significant blow to the foundation of international law and the UN system.