India's UNHRC Vote on Iran
India voted against a Western-backed resolution at the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC). The resolution aimed to censure Iran for its response to nationwide protests and to expand an independent investigation into alleged human rights violations.
The resolution was adopted during the 39th special session of the 47-member council. It received support from 25 countries, faced opposition from seven, and recorded 14 abstentions. India, along with China and several other states, voted against it.
Resolution Details and International Response
The resolution's text expressed strong disapproval of the suppression of peaceful demonstrators in Iran. UN rights officials have characterized these events as "unprecedented" and among the deadliest domestic security operations since the 1979 Revolution.
Additionally, the resolution extended the mandate of an independent international fact-finding mission on Iran for two years and the Special Rapporteur on human rights in Iran for one year. It also called for an urgent inquiry into alleged extrajudicial killings, arbitrary arrests, and other abuses.
Following India’s vote, Iran’s Ambassador to India, Mohammad Fathali, publicly thanked the Indian Government on social media platform X. He stated that New Delhi’s stance reflected its commitment to justice, multilateralism, and national sovereignty.
[Mohammad Fathali] described the resolution as “unjust and politically motivated.”
Background on Iran Protests
The protests in Iran began in late December due to economic hardships and evolved into broader anti-government demonstrations, drawing international attention. UN rights officials have condemned the reported crackdown, which includes lethal force, arbitrary detention, enforced disappearances, and communication blackouts. Independent estimates indicate a significant number of fatalities.
The Western-backed resolution aimed to enhance international oversight and documentation of alleged rights violations, with the objective of supporting accountability in future proceedings.
India's decision to oppose the resolution reflects its diplomatic strategy. New Delhi has maintained strategic ties with Tehran, including collaboration on regional connectivity initiatives like the Chabahar port and energy imports, while also managing relationships with other West Asian partners.
Concurrently, India continues to advise its citizens against travel to Iran amidst ongoing developments.