Iran: Right to self-determination not a privilege granted by major powers

Tehran - BORNA - Addressing a Human Rights Council session on Wednesday, Bahreini pointed to the confluence of illegal military aggressions against Iran, Washington’s declaration of an "economic war," the imposition of "the severest sanctions in history," threats against Tehran's economic partners, and ongoing maritime blockades.

He stated that these measures form part of a broader strategy aimed at weakening an independent and resilient nation.

Citing assessments by UN experts, the Iranian diplomat described unilateral coercive measures as tools of colonial pressure that undermine sovereign equality and the right of nations to self-determination.

"Unilateral coercive measures, by imposing heavy human costs and eroding the fundamental rights of nations, cannot serve as legitimate tools for advancing political objectives," Bahreini emphasized. "The right to life is not a bargaining chip, and the right to self-determination is not a privilege that major powers can grant or withhold. Both rights must be respected without exception."

During the interactive dialogue, UN Special Rapporteur Zeina Jallad expressed deep concern over the global escalation of unilateral sanctions "from Cuba to Iran and beyond."

She called for collective international attention to the human cost of these measures and urged joint efforts to mitigate their adverse impacts on the enjoyment of human rights.

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