Iran: Supporters of Chemical Terrorism in Syria, Iraq Should Account for Policies

“Under the conditions that the Syrian government has continued its cooperation with the OPCW despite the hard situation in the country, the terrorists, including the ISIL and al-Nusra Front (Tahrir al-Sham Hay’at or the Levant Liberation Board), have used chemical weapons in Syria and Iraq; therefore, the countries which have supported the terrorists financially, logistically and operationally should stop their measures,” Jahangiri said, addressing the 86th meeting of the OPCW’s executive board in the Hague on Friday.

“All countries should avoid any kind of support for terrorist activities and those who have launched chemical attacks and the countries which support the chemical terrorists, should account for their behavior and consequences of their policies,” he added.

Jahangiri said that his country as one of the victims of chemical weapons calls on all states to prioritize fight against chemical terrorism.

Iran has always stressed the urgent need for the dismantlement of the Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMDs), including chemical weapons, as it has been a victim of such weapons.

Tens of thousands of Iranians were killed and wounded by chemical weapons during the 1980-1988 Iraqi imposed war on Iran. Around 100,000 Iranians are still living with the effects, which include long-term respiratory problems, eye and skin problems as well as immune system disorders, psychological disorders, genetic disorders, and probably cancers.

Sardasht is a city in Northwestern Iran. According to the 2006 census, its population was 37,000. It lies in the West Azarbaijan province. It was the first city in which civilians were attacked with chemical weapons by former Iraqi dictator, Saddam Hussein during the imposed Iraqi war on Iran.

The population of Sardasht is Kurdish. Sardasht is also known for the many villages around it and their reliability on the city’s market.

On June 28, 1987, Iraqi aircraft dropped what Iranian authorities believed to be mustard gas bombs on Sardasht, in two separate bombing runs on four residential areas.

Sardasht was the first town in the world to be gassed. Out of a population of 20,000, 25% are still suffering severe illnesses from the attacks.