United Nations: UN Fact-Finding Mission and Special Rapporteur Urged Civilian Protection in Iran-Israel Conflict

On June 23, 2025, the UN Fact-Finding Mission on the Islamic Republic of Iran and the UN Special Rapporteur on Iran Mai Sato issued an urgent call for civilian protection and respect for human rights after the escalation of the Israeli attacks on Iran. The conflict, which started on June 13 with Israeli air strikes and intensified over the weekend with the U.S. army targeting Iranian nuclear facilities, has resulted in hundreds of civilian casualties and forced millions to escape and leave major cities. 

The UN experts expressed grave concern over the extensive suffering of Iranian civilians, who have endured sleepless nights, school closures, and widespread psychological trauma. They highlighted potential violations of international humanitarian law due to attacks on civilian infrastructure and the apparent lack of effective advance warnings. The conflict has led to massive internal displacement, with millions of Tehran residents fleeing their homes and facing restricted access to essential services and healthcare.

The Fact-Finding Mission and Special Rapporteur also raised alarm after receiving reports of arbitrary arrests of activists, journalists, and others on espionage charges, as well as the execution of at least two persons. They press all parties to respect international law and protect civilians, emphasizing the danger that the civilian populations across the region are facing. Furthermore, the experts called on Iranian authorities to move prisoners far from supposed airstrike locations and stressed the need for immediate action to safeguard human rights and civilian lives during the conflict.