Tehran Rejects EU Parliament Resolution, Claims It Lacks Legal Foundation
In a recent development, Marzieh Afkham, the Director General of Human Rights and Women at the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, has strongly criticized the European Parliament’s resolution regarding human rights in Iran. This resolution, which accuses Iran of systematic repression of rights, particularly women’s rights, has been labeled as unfounded by Afkham, reflecting a politicized agenda within the European institution.
On Saturday, just two days after the resolution’s passage, Afkham articulated her concerns, stating that such actions are repetitive and do not hold legal validity. She emphasized the importance of respecting international law and the independence of Iran’s judicial system. Here are some key points from her statement:
- Condemnation of the Resolution: Afkham condemned the European Parliament’s resolution as irresponsible, asserting that it undermines the judicial processes in Iran.
- Judicial Independence: She affirmed that the Iranian judiciary operates as a professional body, ensuring that all judicial processes adhere to legal standards.
- Rejection of Foreign Interference: Afkham stated that any foreign interference in Iran’s judicial matters contradicts international law and is categorically rejected by the Islamic Republic.
Furthermore, Afkham addressed the criticism directed at the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), a critical institution in maintaining Iran’s national security. She described the IRGC as a legal and popular institution that has played a pivotal role in defending Iran against various aggressions, including that of Saddam Hussein’s regime and combating regional terrorism. Her remarks included:
- Defense Against Aggression: The IRGC has been instrumental in safeguarding Iran’s sovereignty and security.
- Decisive Response: Any threats against the IRGC will elicit a strong response from the Iranian government.
In her critique of the European Parliament, Afkham urged members to reconsider their stance and avoid supporting groups that promote violence and terrorism. She highlighted that such actions not only violate fundamental human rights but also hinder peace and stability efforts. The following points summarize her position:
- Learning from Past Mistakes: Afkham called on the European Parliament to reflect on its previous actions that have been deemed ill-considered.
- Constructive Role: She urged the European Parliament to fulfill its international obligations by promoting peace and human rights rather than supporting violent elements.
Afkham’s comments come amidst growing tensions between Iran and Western nations, particularly over issues related to human rights and regional security. The Iranian government has consistently defended its judicial processes and has rejected external criticisms as politically motivated.
The ongoing dialogue surrounding human rights in Iran continues to be a contentious issue on the international stage. While the European Parliament’s resolution aims to spotlight human rights violations, Iranian officials maintain that such interventions are unwarranted and detrimental to diplomatic relations.
In conclusion, Afkham’s remarks reflect a broader narrative within Iran regarding the sovereignty of its judicial system and resistance to foreign criticism. As global scrutiny of human rights practices intensifies, it remains to be seen how these diplomatic tensions will unfold and whether there will be any shift in the approaches taken by both Iranian authorities and European institutions.
As the situation develops, the international community will undoubtedly be watching closely to assess the implications for human rights, regional stability, and the future of Iran’s diplomatic engagements.
