In the name of God, the Giver of life
The tragic events of January 2026 once again confronted Iranian society with a profound and irreparable loss of human life, lives that could have continued to weave meaning, hope, and vitality into the social fabric of this land. These events cannot be reduced to a temporary crisis or an individual experience; rather, they must be understood as a collective and enduring wound that has deeply affected the very foundations of security and human dignity.
In such circumstances, revisiting the most fundamental principle of human rights becomes unavoidable: the right to life. This is a right for which no disagreement, under any circumstance, can serve as a pretext for threat, violation, or deprivation. From a human rights perspective, human life is neither an instrument in the service of political considerations nor a figure to be diminished within statistical accounts; it possesses an inherent, foundational, and non-negotiable value. Any violation of this right unquestionably undermines the foundations of social, legal, and moral order.
Within this framework, the Human Rights Institute of the University of Isfahan expresses its profound sorrow and deepest solidarity with the bereaved families and all those affected by these tragic events: with mothers whose long waits have turned into heavy silence; with fathers whose strength has been bent under the weight of loss; with spouses who carry the burdens of life in the absence of their loved ones; and with children deprived of the warmth and embrace of their parents. Their grief is not a private sorrow, but a collective one. Healing this pain lies not in denial or oblivion, but in transparent accountability, responsibility, and a firm determination to prevent the recurrence of such tragedies.
Accordingly, all relevant actors and responsible authorities are expected to recognize the sanctity of the lives of Iranians as an absolute, inviolable, and non-negotiable red line, one whose violation can neither be justified nor excused through silence or inaction. Within this framework, the consistent prioritization of safeguarding the lives of citizens in all decisions and actions; the immediate de-escalation of tensions; the responsible avoidance of any discourse or approach that may exacerbate harm; the ensuring of rapid and effective access for those affected to medical, emergency, and essential support services; as well as a firm commitment to transparency, accountability, and responsible investigation, are imperative, so that truth is not relegated to the shadows and justice is not distorted amid competing narratives.
It must be emphasized that Iran, throughout its long and dignified history, has repeatedly passed through difficult and defining moments, not by denying suffering, but by recognizing justice and sustaining hope for the future. It is therefore hoped that the outcome of this sorrow will also serve as a guiding light, illuminating the path ahead for Iran, and that from these hardships will emerge a horizon grounded in peace, solidarity, and lasting justice.
For the sanctity of life, for the dignity of humanity, and for Iran
Human Rights Institute of the University of Isfahan
