UN Secretary-General Faces Backlash over Iran Congratulatory Message
UN Secretary-General António Guterres is receiving criticism for sending a public congratulatory note to Iran, marking the anniversary of the 1979 Islamic Revolution. This comes at a time when the Iranian government is under scrutiny for ongoing human rights violations.
In his letter to Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, Guterres extended his “heartfelt congratulations” on the day commemorating the founding of the Islamic Republic. Iranian state media reported that the Secretary-General used this occasion to reflect on Iran’s history and its contributions to the global community.
The timing of this message raised eyebrows, particularly after weeks of massive protests in Iran that have resulted in thousands of deaths. The unrest began in late December as the nation’s economy struggled under Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei, evolving into broader dissent against the clerical leadership.
According to reports, two senior officials from Iran’s health ministry indicated that the death toll during the demonstrations was around 30,000 on just January 8 and 9.
Hillel Neuer, the executive director of UN Watch, criticized Guterres’ message as “appalling,” arguing that it undermines the struggles of the protesters.
In response to the backlash, UN officials defended the letter, stating it is standard practice to send such congratulatory messages to member states during national holidays. Stéphane Dujarric, spokesperson for Guterres, emphasized that this letter should not be seen as an endorsement of any governmental policies.
Adding to the controversy, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Aragushi is set to speak at the UN Human Rights Council later this month. Dujarric clarified that decisions regarding invitations fall to the Security Council, and the UN secretariat does not have the authority to block member states’ requests.
Interestingly, Guterres had previously highlighted the UN’s precarious financial situation due to unpaid dues from member states, particularly noting the impact of reduced contributions from the U.S. under President Donald Trump.
