UN HRC 61st Urgent Debate on the recent military aggression launched by the Islamic Republic of Iran
Following a request filed by UNHRC Member States, the Human Rights Council held an urgent debate on “the recent military aggression launched by Iran against Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates on 28 February 2026, targeting civilians and civilian infrastructure, which has resulted in the loss of innocent lives”, on Wednesday, 25 March 2026.
The urgent debate is being convened following an official request submitted on Wednesday, 18 March 2026 by Bahrain on behalf of the Cooperation Council for Arab States of the Gulf (GCC) and Jordan. The request states that the group of countries intends to present a draft resolution to the Council, in connection with the urgent debate.
Participants highlighted the serious and evolving humanitarian and human rights implications of the situation. Missile and drone attacks have affected several countries across the Gulf region and beyond, resulting in civilian casualties and damage to critical infrastructure. Concerns were raised regarding compliance with international law, including international humanitarian law and international human rights law, particularly with respect to the protection of civilians and civilian objects.
The debate also underscored the broader regional and global implications, including disruptions to maritime routes such as the Strait of Hormuz, affecting the supply of energy, food, and medicine, and contributing to economic instability, particularly in vulnerable countries.
The discussion reflected growing concern about the risk of further regional and global spillover, as well as the importance of continued international attention and coordinated responses.
Read more here.
Watch the Urgent Debate: https://webtv.un.org/en/asset/k1a/k1az12eff6