Sheikh Dr. Taysir al-Tamimi, Palestine’s Chief Justice, called on the Iraqi government to lift the blockade against Iranian refugees residing in Ashraf City (Camp Ashraf) and ensure their medical treatment and protection against any form of abuse
For more than two decades, the main Iranian opposition group, the People’s Mojahedin Organization of Iran (PMOI/MEK) has maintained a presence in Iraq. Currently nearly 3,500 members of the PMOI including about 1000 women reside in Camp Ashraf, Iraq.
NCRI – The text of statement by the Office of the Chief Justice / Highest Council of Islamic Jurisdiction in Palestine:
Sheikh Dr. Taysir al-Tamimi, Palestine’s Chief Justice and Head of the Highest Council of Islamic Jurisdiction, called on the Iraqi government to lift its siege against Iranian refugees residing in Ashraf City and being to recognize their rights in the context of international law. He also demanded their humane treatment and stressed that their expulsion or displacement would be in violation of international law.
With respect to protecting Iranian refugees in Ashraf City and Palestinian refugees in the Baladiat region near Baghdad against any threat of abuse, Dr. al-Tamimi invited the Iraqi government to comply with international laws, conventions, and treaties (especially the Fourth Geneva Convention which demands observance of human rights), and also to abide by the divine laws demanding the complete fulfillment of a dignified life. He noted that the brotherhood of humanity and faith which links these refugees to the brother nation of Iraq, necessitates an unbiased treatment of refugees and civilians, which is far away from political considerations and quarrels or armed conflicts.
The Palestinian Chief Justice added that the brother nation of Iraq will never enjoy true security and stability unless it moves to protect all its residents and social groups. It must commit to observe their rights and protect their lives and property, including those of its refugees who have left their own lands as a result of circumstances out of their control and eagerly await the day to return to their own homes.
Public and Media Relations Bureau
Office of the Chief Justice / Highest Council of Islamic Jurisdiction
Bethlehem – Palestine
April 11, 2009
