WANA (Feb 25) – UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk has voiced deep concern over developments in the occupied Palestinian territories, firmly rejecting any plans for the forced displacement of Gaza’s population. He reiterated that human rights violations against Palestinians remain a permanent item on the agenda of the UN Human Rights Council.

 

During a meeting on the sidelines of the UN Disarmament Conference and Human Rights Council session in Geneva, Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi met with Türk to discuss key human rights issues.

 

Araghchi reaffirmed Iran’s commitment to human rights and dignity, emphasizing that the Islamic Republic places significant importance on these principles within its governance system and constitution. He also highlighted Iran’s ongoing engagement with the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) and expressed readiness to continue this cooperation.

 

Criticizing the selective and politicized approach of some Western governments, Araghchi condemned the U.S. and its allies for their inaction and complicity in Israel’s systematic human rights violations in the occupied Palestinian territories. He asserted that such double standards have discredited Western human rights rhetoric and emboldened Israel to commit severe international crimes with impunity.

 

For his part, Türk reiterated concerns outlined in his report at the opening of the Human Rights Council’s high-level session, warning against escalating global trends that threaten fundamental human rights principles. He stressed the need for all states to uphold their international legal obligations in the field of human rights.

 

Türk reaffirmed the UN’s firm stance on Palestinian human rights, emphasizing that the OHCHR has consistently condemned violations and will remain committed to addressing the situation transparently and resolutely.