Geneva: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced Iraq’s nomination for membership in the Human Rights Council for the period 2026-2028, emphasizing Iraq’s commitment to working with everyone to protect and promote human rights.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for Multilateral Affairs and Legal Affairs, Shorsh Khaled Saeed, delivered Iraq’s statement during the high-level session of the 58th session of the Human Rights Council held in Geneva. The statement condemned the ongoing aggression by the occupying power on the Gaza Strip, which has resulted in the deaths of over 50,000 Palestinians, primarily women and children, in violation of international human rights law. Saeed expressed deep concern over the worsening humanitarian situation and called for an end to the forced displacement of the Palestinian people.

The statement also highlighted Iraq’s achievements, including conducting its first population census since 1997 and progress in the economic sector with initiatives like the Development Road Project and the completion of the first stages of the Faw Port. There has also been notable progress in women’s empowerment and minority representation across various societal sectors.

Saeed announced Iraq’s candidacy for the Human Rights Council membership for 2026-2028, expressing hope for international support for this candidacy. He stressed Iraq’s commitment to protecting and promoting human rights, with a specific focus on addressing the impacts of climate change and aiding developing countries in adopting adaptation programs.