WANA (Oct 28) – Amir Saeed Iravani, Iran’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations, called for the immediate and unconditional lifting of the blockade imposed on Cuba, describing it as a clear example of unilateral and inhumane coercive measures against a sovereign and independent nation that have systematically undermined the rights and welfare of the Cuban people.

 

Speaking at the UN General Assembly on Tuesday, October 28, Iravani emphasized that unilateral sanctions are illegal measures rooted in arrogance and unilateralism that endanger multilateralism, destabilize the global order, and weaken the very spirit of the UN Charter. He stated that such actions have a deeply negative impact on peace, both regionally and globally, and pose a fundamental obstacle to building a just and equitable international order—an essential prerequisite for achieving sustainable development.

 

He added that the continuation of unilateral and inhumane sanctions and blockade against Cuba—imposed for more than 60 years under the pretext of promoting democracy—is a striking example of coercive measures that systematically erode the rights and well-being of the Cuban people.

 

The Iranian representative further noted that the United States, through its continued unilateral and coercive policies toward independent and sovereign nations, has ignored the clear and unified demand of the international community to end its long-standing hostility toward Cuba.

 

Iravani reiterated Iran’s firm opposition to any form of economic, commercial, or financial sanctions against independent nations, including Cuba, stressing that for decades, successive U.S. administrations have pursued sanctions as a tool to advance hegemonic and unilateral objectives.

WANA - Masoud Pezeshkian metting with Cuban Prime Minister Manuel Marrero Cruz

WANA – Masoud Pezeshkian metting with Cuban Prime Minister Manuel Marrero Cruz

He underlined that such sanctions primarily target ordinary people—especially women, children, and the elderly—causing serious harm to their health, security, and welfare. Moreover, these measures have become a complex barrier to development, which is one of the most fundamental human rights.

 

“These inhumane and immoral policies, and the use of sanctions as a means to pressure sovereign nations into relinquishing their freedom and independence—thereby undermining their dignity and sovereignty—must be firmly condemned and unequivocally rejected,” he said.

 

Iravani noted that the overwhelming majority of the international community, through repeated resolutions adopted by the UN General Assembly, has rejected the continuation of sanctions against Cuba and called on the U.S. government to correct its failed policies and lift the blockade.

 

“The blockade against Cuba must be lifted immediately and without any preconditions,” the Iranian envoy stressed. “Ending these measures would not only bring much-needed relief to the Cuban people but would also send a clear and powerful message to the world that the era of coercion, domination, and economic oppression must come to an end.”

 

He concluded by reaffirming that Iran stands in unwavering solidarity with the government and people of Cuba in their struggle against unjust measures. “Together with all nations committed to justice, we will continue our efforts to eliminate all forms of unilateral coercive actions that undermine the independence of states and the foundations of international cooperation and peaceful coexistence.”