Seyyed Abbas Araghchi, Iran's Foreign Minister, at the "Ecoside: Silent War Crime" meeting held on Sunday, October 10, emphasized the importance of international law against environmental destruction and the violation of human rights in wartime conditions. He pointed out the devastating effects of wars on the environment, noting that these issues must be addressed alongside humanitarian law.
The Environment as a Victim of Wars
Araghchi stated at the meeting that the environment can no longer be a silent victim of wars, saying: "War and conflict do not only target human lives and infrastructure, but also severely damage water, soil, air, and natural resources." He described these destructions not only as economic losses but as profound and lasting consequences on human lives.
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The Iranian Foreign Minister referred to recent experiences in Gaza, Lebanon, and Iran, highlighting the destructive effects that military attacks leave on the environment. He said: "In Gaza, the UN Environment Program has spoken of unprecedented environmental damage, and its effects may last for years on the lives of the Palestinian people."
Accountability and Environmental Protection
Araghchi emphasized the necessity of accountability for environmental destruction, stating: "No government or international body should consider itself above international responsibilities." He also mentioned the Islamic Republic of Iran as a supporter of legal dialogues to strengthen international support for the environment.
The Iranian Foreign Minister pointed to three fundamental principles in this regard: first, accountability for environmental destruction, which must be addressed with preventive mechanisms, documentation, and compensation; second, protection of the environment during armed conflicts, which must be strictly adhered to; and third, combating double standards in environmental protection. He added: "Environmental criteria must be implemented fairly and without discrimination."
In conclusion, Araghchi emphasized that environmental protection must go beyond declared commitments and enter the realm of accountability and effective international action. He said: "A child living in a war-torn area today may bear the environmental costs of a war in which they played no role for decades to come."
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