WANA (Dec 10) – Iran’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Amir Saeid Iravani, has called on the UN Secretary-General and the Security Council to condemn recent terrorist attacks on Iran’s diplomatic missions in Syria and take necessary measures to ensure the safety of diplomatic personnel and facilities.

 

In a letter addressed to UN Secretary-General António Guterres and the current Security Council President, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, Iravani highlighted the “blatant violations” of the 1961 Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations and the 1963 Vienna Convention on Consular Relations. These conventions guarantee diplomatic premises’ inviolability and their personnel’s safety.

 

“The Islamic Republic of Iran emphasizes that the immunity of diplomatic and consular missions and their representatives must always be respected in accordance with international law,” Iravani stated.

 

“No individual, group, or government has the right to commit or facilitate such violations. Iran requests the UN Secretary-General and Security Council to explicitly condemn these grave breaches and take measures to prevent further attacks.”

 

The letter detailed recent incidents, including an armed attack on Iran’s embassy in Damascus on December 8, 2024. Militants reportedly stormed the premises, causing extensive damage, destroying furniture, and stealing documents. Initial reports and videos circulating online suggest that gunfire was directed at the embassy.

 

Similarly, on November 29, 2024, Iran’s consulate in Aleppo was targeted with short-range projectiles. Following the evacuation of consulate staff due to threats to their safety, the building was occupied and ransacked by assailants.

 

These attacks coincide with intensified clashes between armed groups and Syrian government forces. On December 8, 2024, the Syrian military announced the fall of President Bashar al-Assad’s government following the capture of Damascus by opposition forces. Reports indicate that Assad and his family have sought asylum in Russia, with the Kremlin confirming their arrival in Moscow.

 

Iravani’s letter underscores Iran’s grave concern over the deteriorating security situation and the implications for international diplomatic norms. Iran has requested the UN to circulate the letter as an official document of the Security Council.