On the 37th anniversary of the Halabja chemical attack, Iran’s Foreign Ministry urged recognition of the atrocity and the role of the West. Spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei emphasized the lasting impact of the attack, which saw significant support from the U.S. and European nations for Saddam Hussein’s regime. The attack resulted in the deaths of approximately 5,000 individuals, primarily civilians, and ongoing health issues for many survivors.
The Iranian Foreign Ministry commemorated the 37th anniversary of the Halabja chemical attack, asserting the attack’s lasting repercussions. Spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei stated that time does not diminish the gravity of the 1988 chemical bombing, executed by Saddam Hussein’s regime against the Kurdish town of Halabja in Iraq. He emphasized that the United States and select European nations contributed to the assault via technical and technological support.
Baqaei further referenced the collective suffering endured by Iranians, particularly those in Sardasht, and recognized many military and civilian victims of chemical weapon assaults during the protracted Iran-Iraq War. He issued a critique against European countries for their involvement by supplying chemical weapons to Iraq, asserting that, “Europe’s unwillingness to acknowledge the truth and take responsibility undermines their credibility in matters of human rights and the rule of law.”
The Halabja chemical attack, which occurred on March 16, 1988, transpired during the latter stages of the Iran-Iraq War. The Iraqi air force, commanded by Saddam Hussein, unleashed a potent mix of chemical agents, including mustard gas, sarin, and VX, on the city of Halabja. As the local populace had aligned with Iran, Saddam viewed them as a threat to his authority and sought retribution for their perceived disloyalty. Ali Hassan al-Majid, who earned the infamous moniker “Chemical Ali,” was instrumental in orchestrating the attack.
The tragedy precipitated the immediate deaths of approximately 5,000 individuals, predominantly civilians, including women and children. In addition to the fatalities, thousands sustained injuries and continue to grapple with long-term health consequences due to chemical exposure.
The Iranian Foreign Ministry’s emphasis on the Halabja chemical attack serves as a potent reminder of its enduring impact, highlighting the complicity of the United States and European nations in the tragic events. The acknowledgment of such atrocities is essential for maintaining credibility in human rights matters. As Iran reflects on this anniversary, the need for recognition and accountability remains paramount to addressing past injustices.
Original Source: www.tehrantimes.com
