KUALA LUMPUR (7 MARCH 2026) – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) expresses grave concern over the recent military attacks carried out by the United States and Israel against the Islamic Republic of Iran, which have significantly escalated tensions in the Middle East and placed civilian lives at grave risk.
Recent reports indicate that the strikes targeted multiple locations in Iran as part of a coordinated military operation, triggering retaliatory actions and raising fears of a wider regional conflict. The ongoing hostilities have already resulted in substantial casualties and damage to civilian infrastructure.
SUHAKAM emphasises that any use of force that undermines the territorial integrity or political independence of a State is contrary to the fundamental principles enshrined in the United Nations Charter, in particular Article 2(4), and is inconsistent with the obligation of States to act in good faith as provided under Article 2(2). In this regard, SUHAKAM reiterates that all parties to an armed conflict are bound by international law, including international humanitarian law and international human rights law. These legal frameworks impose clear obligations on States and armed actors to always distinguish between civilians and combatants, to refrain from attacks on civilian infrastructure, and to ensure that any use of force complies with the principles of necessity, proportionality, and precaution.
SUHAKAM is particularly concerned by reports of civilian casualties and the risk of further harm to vulnerable populations, including women and children, as hostilities intensify. Armed conflict inevitably places civilians at the greatest risk, disrupts access to essential services, and exacerbates humanitarian suffering.
SUHAKAM therefore calls on all parties involved to:
- Immediately cease actions that endanger civilian lives and civilian infrastructure;
- Respect and comply fully with international humanitarian law, including the protection of civilians and civilian objects;
- Exercise maximum restraint and prioritise diplomatic engagement to prevent further escalation of the conflict; and
- Ensure accountability for violations of international law, including attacks that may constitute war crimes.
As for the international intervention, SUHAKAM calls for the following actions:
- The UN Security Council may promptly adopt a resolution to stop and address the war between the United States and Israel with Iran, as it is contrary to international law and the UN Charter, particularly Articles 2(4) and 51;
- If the United States prevents the Security Council from acting to restore international peace and security, the UN General Assembly may convene under the “Uniting for Peace” resolution to address and stop the war between the United States and Israel with Iran; and
- The General Assembly may recommend that its Member States impose arms and trade embargoes on all the parties to armed conflict.
At a time of escalating global tensions, SUHAKAM stresses that lasting peace and security can only be achieved through dialogue, diplomacy and respect for international law. The international community must also play a constructive role in supporting de-escalation efforts and safeguarding the fundamental rights and dignity of all affected populations.
SUHAKAM stands in solidarity with all civilians affected by the conflict and reiterates that the protection of human life and human dignity must remain the foremost priority in any situation of armed conflict.
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Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)
7 March 2026
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