Daijiworld Media Network - Tehran
Tehran, Mar 7: Iran has claimed that at least 1,332 civilians, including women and children, have been killed and thousands more injured in airstrikes carried out by the United States and Israel, according to Iran’s ambassador to the United Nations, Amir Saeid Iravani.
Speaking to reporters at the UN headquarters in New York City, Iravani cited data from the Iranian Red Crescent Society, stating that more than 180 children have been killed across the country. He added that over 20 schools have also been damaged in the strikes.
The ambassador accused the United States and Israel of deliberately targeting civilians and civilian infrastructure throughout Iran, claiming that the attacks show the two countries recognize “no red line” in their actions.
According to Iravani, Iranian cities have been struck indiscriminately, with densely populated residential areas and critical civilian facilities among the targets. He described the attacks as “clear war crimes and crimes against humanity.”
He further alleged that 13 healthcare facilities have been hit so far. In addition, several sports and recreational facilities in Tehran and other cities were reportedly targeted on Thursday, resulting in the deaths of more than 18 female athletes and injuries to around 100 others.
Iravani said the objective of the attacks was to spread fear among civilians and cause widespread destruction. He rejected claims by the United States and Israel that the strikes were aimed solely at military targets.
Referring to the ongoing conflict, the ambassador said Iran would continue to exercise its right to self-defence under Article 51 of the UN Charter until the attacks stop. He maintained that Iran’s response is “lawful, necessary and proportionate,” and is directed only at military objectives.
“Iran does not seek war,” Iravani said, but stressed that the country would not surrender its sovereignty and would take all necessary steps to defend its people, territory and independence.
Responding to comments by US President Donald Trump suggesting that Iran should select new leadership, Iravani said such remarks violate the principle of non-interference in the internal affairs of sovereign states as outlined in the UN Charter. He insisted that Iran would not allow any foreign power to interfere in its domestic matters.
The Iranian envoy also called on all UN member states to condemn what he described as aggression and war crimes, warning that the situation poses a serious threat to regional and global peace.
He urged the United Nations Security Council to act “firmly, clearly and without delay” to stop the conflict.