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UN PhotoOHCHR / IRAN PROTESTS
STORY: OHCHR / IRAN PROTESTS
TRT: 01:35
SOURCE: OHCHR
RESTRICTIONS: NONE
LANGUAGES: ENGLISH / NATS
DATELINE: 09 JANUARY 2026, GENEVA, SWITZERLAND
1. Various shots, exterior Palais Wilson
2. SOUNDBITE (English) Jeremy Laurence, Spokesperson, UN Human Rights (OHCHR):
““We are deeply disturbed by reports of violence during nationwide protests in Iran, including reported deaths and destruction of property, over the past 13 days. The right to peaceful protest, as enshrined in international law, must be protected. All deaths should be promptly, independently, and transparently investigated. Those responsible for any violations must be held to account in line with international norms and standards. We are also concerned by reports of nationwide internet and communications shutdowns. Such actions undermine freedom of expression and access to information, as well as impacting on the work of those documenting human rights violations and access to essential/emergency services. We note the Government’s statement that people’s concerns must be urgently addressed. Addressing underlying grievances through inclusive and meaningful dialogue, in line with international human rights law, remains essential to preventing further escalation.”
3. Wide shot, exterior, Palais Wilson
Commenting on the recent protests in Iran, UN Human Rights spokesperson (OHCHR) Jeremy Laurence said, “The right to peaceful protest, as enshrined in international law, must be protected.”
Today (9 Jan), in a recorded statement in Geneva, UN Human Rights Spokesperson Jeremy Laurence made the following comment on recent protests in Iran: “We are deeply disturbed by reports of violence during nationwide protests in Iran, including reported deaths and destruction of property, over the past 13 days. The right to peaceful protest, as enshrined in international law, must be protected. All deaths should be promptly, independently, and transparently investigated. Those responsible for any violations must be held to account in line with international norms and standards. We are also concerned by reports of nationwide internet and communications shutdowns. Such actions undermine freedom of expression and access to information, as well as impacting on the work of those documenting human rights violations and access to essential or emergency services. The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights notes the Government’s statement that people’s concerns must be urgently addressed. Addressing underlying grievances through inclusive and meaningful dialogue, in line with international human rights law, remains essential to preventing further escalation”.
