On the anniversary of the chemical bombardment of Halabja, Hana Human Rights Organization commemorates the memory of the victims of this tragedy and emphasizes that this crime remains one of the most horrific examples of gross human rights violations and the use of prohibited weapons against civilians in contemporary history. Hana stresses the importance of preserving the historical memory of this catastrophe as part of a collective responsibility to prevent the recurrence of such crimes against humanity.
We believe that ignoring the roots of a crime such as Halabja and allowing the continued impunity of those responsible for violence creates conditions in which violence can be reproduced in new forms. In this context, the recent developments in Iran and the country’s drift toward a critical situation—resulting in the deaths and injuries of a considerable number of citizens—once again highlight the vital importance of safeguarding the right to life, human dignity, and the security of civilians.
Hana Human Rights Organization reminds that any political or military decision whose consequences lead to the expansion of insecurity and the threat to the lives of citizens must be assessed in light of clear human rights obligations and accountability for human lives. Therefore, the international community and international institutions are expected to act with heightened sensitivity and responsibility to prevent the continuation of cycles of violence and to take effective measures to protect civilians.