Meeting

Upon the invitation of Eng. Ali Ahmed Alderazi, Chairperson of the National Institution for Human Rights (NIHR), the Council of Commissioners of NIHR convened an extraordinary meeting to examine and discuss the human rights and humanitarian implications resulting from the Iranian attacks targeting the Kingdom of Bahrain, within the framework of the Institution’s national mandate and its core competence in the protection and promotion of human rights.

During the meeting, the Council reviewed the latest field developments and the grave violations that have affected the very essence of fundamental rights, foremost among them the endangerment of civilian lives, as well as the targeting of civilian objects and vital infrastructure, in clear violation of the principles of international human rights law and international humanitarian law, particularly those prohibiting indiscriminate or deliberate attacks against civilians and civilian facilities, which constitute a flagrant violation of human rights.

The Council of Commissioners affirmed its strong condemnation of these attacks, stressing that they constitute a serious violation of international human rights law and international humanitarian law, as well as a breach of the principles of the Charter of the United Nations, particularly with regard to respect for State sovereignty and the prohibition of the use of force. The Council further underscored that these acts infringe upon fundamental non-derogable rights, including the right to life, the right to security, and the right to physical integrity. The Council also commended the efforts of the competent authorities in the Kingdom of Bahrain in confronting these attacks and safeguarding the safety and security of citizens and residents through preventive measures and rapid response, reflecting strong institutional readiness and a firm commitment to protecting lives and preserving human dignity.

In this context, Alderazi reviewed the measures undertaken by the Institution since the onset of the Iranian attacks, affirming that, in line with its mandate, the Institution has initiated professional monitoring and documentation of violations, the collection of relevant available evidence, and continuous coordination with the competent authorities to ensure prompt response to affected cases and the provision of necessary protection.

The Council of Commissioners also discussed a number of proposals submitted by its members regarding the Institution’s role during the current phase. It was decided to establish a small committee, composed of members of the Council of Commissioners, tasked with monitoring and documenting the impact of the Iranian attacks on the human rights situation in the Kingdom of Bahrain.

The meeting concluded with the Council reaffirming the Institution’s commitment to continue fulfilling its national role with full independence and professionalism, closely monitoring developments, and taking all necessary measures within its mandate to ensure the protection and promotion of human rights and the safeguarding of human dignity.