Jeddah (UNA) – The Independent Permanent Human Rights Commission of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation welcomed the joint statement issued by the consultative ministerial meeting of foreign ministers of a number of Arab and Islamic countries, held in Riyadh on March 18, 2026, particularly its emphasis on the need to protect civilians and comply with the provisions of international law.
The organization expressed its solidarity with the member states affected by the Iranian attacks and stressed the importance of an immediate cessation of these attacks, in accordance with relevant international obligations. It expressed its deep concern regarding credible reports indicating that the Iranians used ballistic missiles and drones in attacks targeting residential areas and civilian infrastructure in a number of member states, including oil facilities, desalination plants, airports, residential buildings, and diplomatic headquarters.
The commission explained that these attacks constitute serious violations of international humanitarian law and international human rights law, particularly with regard to the principles of distinction and proportionality and the prohibition of targeting civilians and civilian objects, and that targeting vital infrastructure, including water and energy facilities, poses a serious threat to fundamental rights, foremost among them the right to life, security and enjoyment of basic services, and may lead to widespread humanitarian consequences.
In this context, the Commission stresses the need for Iran to comply with its obligations under international law, including the UN Charter, international humanitarian law and international human rights law, with an emphasis on the protection of civilians at all times.
The Commission also stressed the importance of ensuring accountability and preventing impunity, and called for independent and transparent investigations in accordance with international standards, to ensure justice for victims. It noted that it continues to monitor and document the human rights impact of these attacks based on an evidence-based methodology, and called on affected member states to provide it with relevant data and reports in support of documentation and accountability efforts.
The Independent Permanent Human Rights Commission of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation affirmed that respect for international law is fundamental to maintaining regional and international peace and security and protecting human dignity.
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