The Hana Human Rights Organization, citing published reports, warns of potential public health consequences following damage to the Pasteur Institute of Iran in Tehran.
Given the specialized nature of this center in biomedical research, infectious diseases, vaccines, and laboratory activities, damage to its infrastructure and technical and research units may increase the risk of the localized release of contaminated particles, laboratory waste, and certain biological or chemical materials into the surrounding environment. While an accurate assessment of contamination levels requires immediate and independent environmental evaluation, residents in nearby areas, staff, emergency responders, and individuals present in the vicinity may face potential risks to respiratory and overall health.
Hana emphasizes that responsible authorities are obliged to promptly provide clear, accurate, and reliable information regarding environmental contamination, the level of risk to the public, and necessary preventive and protective measures. Failure to ensure transparent communication under such circumstances may seriously undermine the public’s right to access health-related information and the right to health.
The Hana Human Rights Organization urges citizens to avoid non-essential presence around the site until official and verified environmental assessments are released. If movement in the area is unavoidable, the use of appropriate filtered masks is strongly recommended.
Hana also stresses that any attack on scientific, medical, and health-related facilities directly linked to public health raises serious legal and humanitarian concerns under international humanitarian law and the fundamental principles of civilian protection.