Statement by H.E. Mr. Gholam Hossein Darzi Ambassador & Permanent Representative of the Islamic Republic of Iran to the United Nations at ECOSOC Humanitarian Affairs Segment 19 June 2022, New York In the Name of God, the Most Compassionate, the Most Merciful Mr. President, The protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure must remain at the center of all humanitarian efforts. Unfortunately, recent events have demonstrated the devastating consequences of violations of international humanitarian law and the failure to ensure accountability for such acts. Iran has suffered extensive damage as a result of unprovoked war and military attacks targeting civilian and humanitarian infrastructure. Bridges and transportation networks essential for the movement of people and humanitarian assistance have been damaged. Water desalination and water supply facilities, vital for civilian life, were attacked. Hospitals, health centers, pharmaceutical manufacturing plants, and vaccine production facilities were also affected, undermining access to healthcare and life-saving medicines. Most tragically, educational facilities, including schools attended by young children, came under attack. Thousands of innocent civilians, including women and children, have lost their lives, been injured, or become disabled. These attacks caused immense human suffering in the affected communities. Such actions constitute serious violations of international law and are considered war crimes and crimes against humanity.  To address these humanitarian crimes, accountability must be ensured. Those responsible for grave violations of international humanitarian law and international human rights law must be brought to justice. The end of a conflict, regardless of the circumstances, cannot and should not mean impunity for its perpetrators.  We call upon the international community to strengthen mechanisms for the protection of civilians, safeguard humanitarian and medical infrastructure, ensure unimpeded humanitarian access, and support the recovery of affected populations. Humanitarian assistance must never be politicized, and international law must be applied consistently and without double standards. Mr. President, In conclusion, addressing today’s humanitarian crises requires systemic cooperation rooted in multilateral frameworks and strict adherence to international humanitarian law. Managing these complex challenges is not a matter of choice, but a collective responsibility to mitigate human suffering.  I thank you.