In his address, Grand Ayatollah Makarem Shirazi described the Western narrative of human rights as “hollow and meaningless,” stating that Western powers neither believe in human dignity nor adhere to the very principles they preach. “For years, the noble term ‘human rights’ has been manipulated by oppressive and criminal powers to pursue illegitimate interests,” he said. “Under this pretext, they have committed grave atrocities against nations without any regard for conscience or justice.”
Referring to the ongoing violence in the region, the Ayatollah condemned the recent brutal attacks by the Israeli regime and its Western allies on civilian populations, particularly in Gaza and other parts of the Islamic world. “Innocent men, women, and children were martyred in their own homes. Were these oppressed not entitled to the basic human right to life and security? Were they present on any battlefield?”
He continued: “The crimes of the Zionist regime, which is itself a product of Western colonial and inhumane ideologies, have been witnessed by the entire world over the past year. Thousands of Palestinians have been killed, wounded, or displaced — yet the so-called defenders of human rights remain silent or complicit.”
Ayatollah Makarem sharply criticized what he called the “selective and self-serving” approach of the West to human rights. “When Western interests are not at stake, they promote beautiful slogans,” he said. “But the moment those interests are challenged, the first victim is always human rights.”
He urged scholars, intellectuals, and activists to expose the hypocrisy of Western powers and defend the sanctity of true human rights. “The noble concept of human rights must not be allowed to be distorted or destroyed by its main violators. Enlightening global public opinion and revealing the truth is a moral and religious duty,” he emphasized.
Opening his message with condolences to the families of recent martyrs and praise for the resistance of the Islamic nation, the Grand Ayatollah concluded by expressing hope for enduring security and a final victory for the oppressed of the world. “I extend my deep sorrow for the crimes committed by the Zionist regime and its Western supporters, particularly the United States. I also congratulate the brave resistance forces for standing firm in defense of justice and ask the Almighty for strength and triumph for the Muslim Ummah.”
The conference, attended by scholars and human rights experts, aimed to critically examine the reality behind American and Western claims regarding human rights and their impact on global peace, justice, and sovereignty.
