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Urgent Debate: The alarming rise in premediated and public acts of religious hatred - Geneva, 11 July 2023

Video statement

By

H.E. Mr. Hossein Amir-Abdollahian

 Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran

Before

The Human Rights Council

53^rd Session,

Urgent Debate:  The alarming rise in premediated and public acts of religious hatred

Geneva, 11 July 2023

بسم الله الرحمن الرحیم

Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen,

 Mr. President,

 The Islamic Republic of Iran deems it necessary and important to hold this urgent debate of the Human Rights Council.

 The recent desecration of the Holy Quran in Sweden is an act that incites violence, discrimination and hostility towards Muslims.

 Burning the Holy Quran not only violates human rights but also infringes upon the rights of over two billion Muslims worldwide and must be promptly condemned by all human rights advocates.

 We urge the Swedish and other European authorities to take urgent and effective measures in this regard;

 Mr. President,Any doubts or delays in condemning and preventing such actions only reinforce perceptions of double standards and justify abuse of the freedom of expression.

 Thank you, Mr. President.