Sun Jan 25 05:28:56 UTC 2026: ### India Sides with Iran at UNHRC Amidst Crackdown and International Condemnation

The Story:

India voted against a United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) resolution addressing the deteriorating human rights situation in Iran, sparking appreciation from the Iranian ambassador to India, Mohammad Fathali. The resolution, adopted on January 23, 2026, extended the mandate of the Independent International Fact-Finding Mission on Iran for two years and the mandate of the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Iran for one year. This move comes amid a bloody crackdown on nationwide protests in Iran, which began on December 28, 2025, and a comprehensive internet blackout.

Key Points:

  • The UNHRC resolution addressed the human rights situation in Iran in connection with nationwide protests.
  • India voted against the resolution, aligning itself with a minority of states.
  • Mohammad Fathali, Iran’s ambassador to India, expressed gratitude for India’s support, calling it a “principled and firm support of the Islamic Republic of Iran.”
  • Iran claims the sponsors of the UNHRC session have never genuinely cared for the human rights of Iranians and that they imposed sanctions which impacted the lives of Iranians and supported Israel’s war.
  • Activists report that the death toll from the Iranian government’s crackdown has reached at least 5,002 people as of January 23, 2026, with over 26,800 detained.
  • U.S. President Donald Trump stated the U.S. is moving ships toward Iran “just in case” he wants to take action, with the Lincoln strike group reportedly in the Indian Ocean.

Key Takeaways:

  • India’s vote reflects a complex balancing act between its commitment to human rights and its strategic relationship with Iran.
  • The Iranian government faces mounting international pressure over its handling of the protests, despite its claims that the resolution is politically motivated.
  • The escalating situation in Iran carries significant risks, particularly with heightened U.S. military activity in the region.

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