During the sixty-first session of the Human Rights Council held in Geneva, Saudi Arabia’s permanent mission delivered a strongly worded statement condemning what it described as Iranian attacks targeting Riyadh and the Kingdom’s Eastern Province. The statement characterized the strikes as unprecedented and brutal, stressing that no justification, pretext, or political rationale could legitimize such actions.
According to the Saudi representative, the reported attacks were not merely isolated security incidents but serious violations that threaten regional stability. He emphasized that targeting sovereign territory undermines the principles of state sovereignty, good neighborly relations, and international law. Such conduct, he warned, risks escalating tensions across an already fragile region.
The Saudi statement went beyond condemning the strikes on its own territory, asserting that the alleged actions also constituted attempts to endanger other regional states. It specifically referenced the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, Oman, and Jordan, describing the developments as a broader challenge to the sovereignty and security of neighboring countries. The representative argued that these actions represent a clear breach of international legal norms and the Charter of the United Nations.
Particular concern was expressed over reports that civilian and residential areas had been targeted. The Saudi delegation stressed that any attack affecting populated districts places the lives and safety of civilians and expatriate residents at grave risk. It described such conduct as a serious violation of international humanitarian law as well as established human rights standards.
In its address, Saudi Arabia called upon the international community to take a firm and united stance in condemning the attacks. The statement warned that failure to respond decisively could have far-reaching consequences not only for the Middle East but also for global peace and security. Upholding the rules-based international order, the representative argued, requires collective responsibility and consistent accountability.
The Kingdom reaffirmed its commitment to protecting its territory, citizens, and residents. Officials declared that Saudi Arabia would take all necessary measures to safeguard its sovereignty and maintain national stability. Ensuring the security of those living within its borders, the statement noted, remains an essential duty of the state.
Furthermore, the Saudi delegation underlined that sustainable regional peace depends on mutual respect, non-interference, and adherence to international norms. Unilateral military actions that threaten neighboring countries, it argued, erode trust and weaken prospects for cooperation. The representative cautioned that unchecked aggression could set a dangerous precedent with long-term implications for international stability.
Saudi Arabia reiterated its determination to defend its territorial integrity while urging the global community to uphold international law and protect civilian lives. The message delivered at the Geneva forum framed the issue not only as a bilateral dispute but as a matter of broader regional and international concern, calling for responsible conduct and collective action to prevent further escalation.
