UNISON statement on the Iranian conflict

UNISON notes the memorandum of understanding between the Iranian and US governments, committing to a 60 day pause in hostilities to allow for talks. UNISON reiterates its calls for a permanent and sustainable ceasefire, and UN led talks which uphold international law and lead to permanent peace. 

UNISON condemns the illegal US and Israeli bombardment of Iran, as a blatant violation of international law, which has killed thousands of people, damaged public services and has undermined regional peace.

We condemn the continued attacks on Lebanon which have killed over 3,900 people and displaced over a million more and demand that any agreement ensures an end to Israeli government attacks on Lebanon. 

Before the war began ordinary Iranians were suffering severe economic strain which precipitated mass protests and unrest across the country in December last year. The regime killed thousands of protesters. This war has made the economic situation worse. While the Iranian people are worst affected, the illegal war on Iran has hit workers globally including in Britain with rising cost of living and increases in fuel prices. 

We send our solidarity to the Iranian people who continue to resist both internal dictatorship and foreign aggression in their ongoing fight for peace, democracy and social justice. We reiterate that the future of the Iranian people should be decided by the Iranian people.

We call on the UK government to support a diplomatic solution that upholds international law and the UN Charter.