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UN tells Security Council protests in Iran have caused significant loss of life and urges transparent investigations

United Nations Press Briefing · January 16, 2026

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Summary

Assistant Secretary-General Martha Pobey briefed the Security Council on nationwide protests in Iran that the UN said have led to significant casualties; the UN urged independent investigations, restraint and diplomacy to avoid further escalation.

The United Nations told the Security Council that recent popular protests in the Islamic Republic of Iran have rapidly evolved into nationwide upheaval and resulted in significant loss of life.

Speaker 1 said Assistant Secretary-General Martha Pobey briefed council members and that the secretary-general has expressed deep concern over reports of excessive use of force. The briefing called for prompt, independent and transparent investigations into all deaths and for those responsible to be held to account in accordance with international norms.

Speaker 1 also noted public statements suggesting possible military strikes on Iran, which the briefing said add volatility to an already combustible situation. The UN reiterated that concerns about Iran — including nuclear-related issues and ongoing protests — are best addressed through diplomacy and dialogue and urged maximum restraint from all actors.