This statement was delivered by Human Rights Watch at the 61st regular session of the UN Human Rights Council during a general debate on human rights situations that require the Council's attention held on March 16-17, 2026.
Mr. President,
Human Rights Watch is extremely concerned about the potential for grave harms to civilians in the context of the escalating conflict in the Middle East. Not only in light of previous documented laws-of-war violations by the United States, Israel and Iran and other parties to the conflict, and past failures to protect civilians in conflict, but also alarming rhetoric expressing disregard for international law since the conflict began.
To date, Human Rights Watch has documented an unlawful attack on Shajareh Tayyebeh (a) Primary School in Iran which should be investigated as a war crime by the United States (US); the illegal ongoing internet shutdowns and communications restrictions in Iran which violate human rights and put civilians at greater risk amid the conflict; and warned over grave risks to civilians in Lebanon and the unlawful use of white phosphorus over homes by the Israeli military in southern Lebanon.
States should join the High Commissioner and independent mandates urging all parties to the conflict to uphold international humanitarian and human rights law and prioritize the protection of civilians.
There can be no room for double standards on international law. States should prioritize human rights and atrocity prevention across the board – clearly and unequivocally condemning Iran’s atrocious rights record and the potential impact of Tehran’s strikes on civilians, while also clearly and unequivocally condemning violations of international humanitarian law by the United States, Israel and any others party to the conflict.
We encourage the High Commissioner to convene an emergency briefing for this Council, with the participation of relevant independent mandates, on immediate measures required to prevent further atrocities, and to monitor and ensure investigations of violations of international human rights and humanitarian law.
Thank you.
