Science minister writes to UNESCO chief denouncing humanitarian law violations in attacks

Science minister writes to UNESCO chief denouncing humanitarian law violations in attacks

TEHRAN – Iran’s Minister of Science, Research and Technology has urged UNESCO to strongly condemn recent attacks by the United States and Israel against Iranian territory, citing violations of international humanitarian law and UNESCO-protected sites.

The letter, dated March, 5, follows days of intense bombings and missile strikes that have damaged civilian infrastructure, including schools, hospitals and homes.

In the letter to UNESCO Director-General Khaled El-Enany, Minister Hossein Simaee-Sarraf, who doubles as head of Iran’s National UNESCO Commission, detailed significant damage in education, culture, and communications, and alleged breaches of human rights conventions.

The official highlighted the deliberate targeting of a Minab elementary school on Feb. 28 that martyred 168 students, labeling the event a “tragic disaster.” He also pointed to the damage to cultural sites such as Golestan Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the targeting of Iran’s national broadcaster, IRIB.

According to Iranian news agency ISNA, the letter asserted that these attacks systematically target civilian life and human dignity, violating Geneva Conventions and causing harm to hospitals and aid organizations like the Red Crescent.

“UNESCO, as a specialized agency of the United Nations, has a unique and heavy responsibility,” the letter stated. “In situations where institutions and places created for their protection are being destroyed, the organization cannot simply remain a silent observer.”

Also, Simaee-Sarraf called for a forceful and unequivocal condemnation of the attacks, emphasizing UNESCO’s role in safeguarding human rights and cultural heritage. He urged UNESCO to take a firm stance against these violations, with the world looking to the organization for leadership and action.

AM

source: tehrantimes.com