S/PV.2176 Security Council

The Security Council - Will nOk resume its consideration of the'item on the akenda. I should like ' - to draw the '&e&ion of the members. of the Council to the following 'documents: document S/13670;'which contain. A t&text of a letter dated 1 December 1979 from the'Permanent Representative of Tunisia to the United Uations addressed to the President of the Security'Council, and document s/13671; which contains the.text of a letter dated l~Decemberz1$79 from'the.C,harg$ d'Affaires of the Permanent Mission ._*. of Iran to the United-'Nations addressed.to-the Secretary-General. : . .' I Mr. BISHARA TKuwait): ‘The issue before the Council‘is 'serious. .I. Developments 'in'events and the deterioration in the relations between the United States and the Is&& Republic.of &an during re&en$ weeks may have dangerous . ,j, ;,1 :. consequences and repercussions on the international scene. With'this possibility . in mind and with a fullawareness of the dangerous nature of the problem, we _ have supported and.'will continue to support all efforts to contain this crisis. ..Undoubtedly the Secretary-General, MY. Kurt Waldheim;has made all possible .. efforts'to achieve an arrangement for a peaceful conclusion of the problem. He was right to invoke Article 99 of the Charter when he realized the danger of a continuance of the impasse and it is indeed.gratif$ng that ali members of the Council supported him on this issue. Further, the'president ' of the.Security Council issued, on behalf of the'members of the'council, two statements in which he called for the immediate release of 'the hostages and the solution of the problem in accordance with the provisions 'of the Charter and the norms of international law. My delegation endorsed and still endorses those two statements. After listening last night to 13 members of the Council and two non-members, I must say the debate so far has been moderate and characterized by a spirit of constructiveness and a sense of realism. We must understand that passions that have -been suppressed for three decades and have recently found an outlet are bound to be strong, deep and spontaneous; With the eruption of passions, old wounds and genuine grievances are bound to surface. We should not be surprised by this fact or by the immensity ofthose,passions. The Security Council is unanimous in its .call for respect for international law and the rules that regulate diplomatic practice. Indeed, we support all calls for the immediate release of the hostages. In a charged atmosphere, :K.. '-':. Secretary-General in his unflagging efforts to ensure'.a peaceful settlement.~ ' -. p '_ .., - .. y.., .F...'. , He has established a line of communication with the Government of Iran and > has succeeded in : may,wish perhaps (_ .. .' containing the crisis.in many ways. ,., . ..' Therefore the Coun&il to consider the following elements, which, after"listening ' I.-f., ,' J i : " :y> .i (',, ;' L7;qlf I* the Council, I venture to put forward as‘guidelines for " I to 13 members of this debate. We believe that the Council should: first, reaffirm:the .i '_..L ,*'^-... .1*' principles of the;:settlement of disputes by peaceful means and of '$efra&ig .- : *,' rr,.'..-L- ': .,y, .I ‘b>,FI,‘.; - _ *iAl. .-,. ~__ .J::>-s from military threats or the use offorce in settling disputes Gong nations;~'~ . ^ 5. ;; . . - -' 'iy;r secondly, 4. ..-: Ix12,;. -. .I.... L ‘:‘L.:.c + '2 u call for scrupulous respect for the principle of-non-interference-in ': . - : , r . the domestic affairs of States and for the territorial"i~~E~~~~~ :. '; I'. ':s;2,11.~,C-: >. I ..q; '2 1. L nations; thirdly, demand scrupulous adherenck~'to~internationall . . -t.y;;.L :,.-:, rules that regulate diplomatic immunity; fourt,h,ly~‘~call for.,-- ,. ,;:3 -' . . . . .:? ~. l...;~i-,:c-l,;.-.-~~.~'~ -in .,, i > . .- ,.:'"^. +r-l; .It~,_: release of the hostages on hu.ma,nitar$::.nIn,-as well as:on legal grounds; fifth1 ,, .__“ r :,, -: di* :... -',.w2,c.'~ .,r< .: :+::a .,c:;: +-qPcl->,-- ;, -i;*.r‘e..- ,..., consider authorizing the Secretarv-General-t.o':'set ird a c&ultative 6: may assist-in identifying abuses.and violations of h&&rights %hat.took':-;' place in Iran under. the past, ,rdgi,mFeT1'@ I w&,-as, in~,~&%&ng‘$h$ -: -I .+ " :. .,; 1: j _I .I. 'd :.. e : i .., -.,:fy,: ,--.p.;, i :.;:.:*. ._.,._... ,. ."_ grievances of the.Government of,Iran as o-u&lined in the letter sent-by the~:.'~"c-~~'L'~~ i_ :- >. _ 'C: -I' I _. i." . .f * . ,_I'7 :.* i :3: : ., .I :- .:. ~"i~~~$~'-!. --~-~~~-;*~w>;~ : Charg6.d'Affaires of Iran to the outgoing-President; and sixthly-,. .^"* L&s1 i .*- -. - ., L, : __ , ;- ! ., .L. ! ; ‘., :, .,re!uest the- _ . I -,. .I& :,i 1 ..; . y;i ‘7.T : .T‘-:-.-.(::- .,. 1 Secretary-General to.use his good offices in whatever manner-he deems necessary : : I -, L..r:' -i ,.\" . . . to achieve a peaceful settlement of the,crisis,- '~ j ;;>. >;-< ...::',.I,~,i=-,"~i_::' :,' i :;; L~:~b,,~L~;,i -,;‘:.i .,., bearing.in mind-the urgency of . . . ,.. .: .!. I ,. :y ,; ,: :i---;,,.is..T, I- _ .., a* i ,_ the release of the hostages and the redressing of the legitimate griev&es"of;: : > ". (1 ._. I the Iranian people. ".'_ :. It is very important to reinforce and strengthen the contacts the .'. . .: ;" 2. ' Secretary-General has established with the Government of Iran, and in this respect only a realistic approach will assist him in his efforts under the present circumstances. It is also important not to restrict the Secretary- General in his use of his gpod offices. He may send envoys or he may have recourse to the good offices of individuals, organizations or institutions. What is important in this respect is that the issue should be approached with inventiveness and originality. I>L Finally, the members of the.Council should..all do their utmost to ..: . . .- assist the Secretary-General in his endeavours to'achieve apeaceful' : ,.: : resolution of-this question. ..- .'. . . .:.. , ; . . _, ~ Mr. MILLS.(Jamaica): :For several-weeks the-Security Council has ,': been seized ofan issue which istnot-only ,extraordinary,'.but which represents, a real danger-totthe entire international.community. A series of developments in respect of Iran and reaching back over a,period of years has now .culminated in aLset of:events and circumstanceslwhich pose:a threat to international ' peace and security. Today, the United States and the.ISlamic.Republic of F ' Iran are poised in a tense and dangerous confrontation.::- ., . ' : ’ : ,p : 1.. . . . The Security Council has, over'the past few'Leeks, sought-to -establish the means of resolving this crisis ,:fully .aware‘of its responsibilities-and a-f.the:. I _ I : gravity of the situation. The Secretary-General has made;strenuous efforts to:.l,L.-- assist the parties immediately concerned and the international community in dealing with what is indeed a.most complex and explosive;issue.la The-value of . . . - .I his continuing contact with.the 'Iranian authorities -cannot be~.'overestimated~,.".!,r:l.,. .' . My delegation is also .aware of,the.pLany efforts on the part:of anumber.of.5 :‘,z... Governments ; organizations, and individuals 'in this r.egard.3 ', I- :‘rc:.c r,. ' .- + -+;;.,:: ,i;. I : 1 . . On 25.November, the Secretary-General ,took.the unusual step.of,,exercisinge, - his responsibility,under-Article 99,of the United*Nations :-Chal~er,and~~~~led..for:l~~ ,_. .,I . i. . ..I.. ., .- d L i . an urgent meeting of the Councilto seek.a,peace&. solution to the;probl.emi,+g;;:,:F _ ,'.. In this, he has been fully.s~upported by members of-the Council.. :. ' .L ~ , . . . p . - .,_* *' , . . .(. . . In his letter to the.President of the,C!ouncil,. he has ind.icated;the ,main,4,, , . . _. . '.. elements of the crisis, which involves the seizure of the-United.States. pbassy ._., a in Tehran and the holding of the staff as hostages, and the &l.l.by~~ran for: : _: the redress of injustices ar@the abuse.of human rights which,wetie,in..its viey? h... _ . . . (-. :. . .,. ’ committed by the previous r+gime. ,. ;' f_ =' ..j L ,., I , : '\' . . . I , = _, >' '_' " i-, .,I: .;..a . b'@ delegation, alongwith others.,, is .aware .of.the extremely strong-feelings: .; 1. of the people of Iran and of,:their deep desire to obtain redress in respect,of . _ a'., . . . I . . . : 1. :'. the grievances 'referred to in their.communications $and in,the letter of.,the . .'.. Secretary-General. He are also aware of the high level of tension and:emotion,in.. ., . that country surrounding this affair. We do not, however,.deem it appropriate.,,., .' '., . . at this stage to comment on these matters and,on.the legal considerations' involved, nor to speculate on possible approaches or remedies. Nevertheless, _ . . they constitute a major element in the problem now before ,us, and,in our ,view.: every viable means must be explored, both multilaterally and .bilaterally,and .I,. through the ,judicious and pragmatic application of the principles of justice and law, to.find peaceful means of addressing and resolving them. (Mr. Mills, Jamaica) It was inevitable that the‘seizing of American diplomatic personnel and the holding of these persons in captivity and the seizure .of the &bassy in Tehran would become the primary issue in this situation and the centre of international concern.' My delegations regards.these actions as unacceptable. They constitute a grave breach of the fundamental principles and'rules of international lak and diplomatic .practice. They'represent a threat to the effective conduct of international'relations. Moreover, 'these actions have brought considerable suffering to the.persons.involved-and to their families. Finaliy, they have converted a aituation.which in'itself'was fullof serious difficulty into anincreasingi.. explosive one. : . . Jamaica's position in this matter is clear. It is'rooted in our deep concern for the safety of the'persons .involved and in'&& determination to .' .: ensure'that 'the 'principles and'rules'of'international conduct inthese matters are observed and respected. . It is for these reasons that we, along with other'members of'the.Security .- Council, supported'khe call issued by the.President of 'the Council on 9 November _' and again on 27 November for the.immediate release of the hostage;&. .' .' " '--It is in this spirit‘that Jtiaica'jbineh,wi%h other inehbers'of the Organieation of American-States in the 'declaration issued on 26 November and in' : . the appeal to 'the?&erntient of .Iran:'And.it is equally in exp&s~ionofthese L feelings thai'.the Prime Minister of'J&naica issued an appeal on 20'November which stated; inter alia:. .' _ . "_ '. . . ., , ._'- "Relations'between States 'are'based onpatterns of conduct which have b&borne well'establi‘shed over many centuries. These Patterns o'f '. conduct enable int&nationsl relations to be conducted in a manner'which'. * is predictable“and to minimize' the possibility of friction.' "The Covernment'of Jamaica is gravely concerned that the present .: action, which violates these long-established principles, could'have the most dangerous implications for the future conduct of international rekitions. "The Government of Jamaica therefore issues an appeal to the Iranian authorities to ensure the release of the hostages and the cessation of the"' occupation of the Embassy in ackordance.with internationally accehted .' 'I principles governing relations among States. This appeal,is also made "*"'- on humanitarian grounds‘. : "The Government of'J&naica regards these as necessary steps in **:;p, creating a propitious atkkphere'for the international community to ")' consider ways in which it'might assist to resolve the problems which now . exist between-Iran and-the United States'bf America. .,. .'$: "Jamaica stands ready to help in wh'atever way it'can td'achieve a .: '. satisfactory resolution'. ' ', I'.- Jamaica once again joins inthe -call"fok the speedy release of the hostages.i". .' -, :!,‘ .without conditions. : _. .,. In this dangerous situation the.Council must"act judictiusly, with'a'sense '* * of urgency and with a full abpreciation of the far-reaching implications; The '- ~ task is undoubtedly made more~'diffi&.iLt'with'the almost daily developments . '."-.' : which add new dimensions - in.some-cases. dangerous ones - to the crisis.' Such' - i * a situation occurring at any'itime &ld @resent grave problems';- 'These'. '. ':. 'I" -': \. ._ 1. developments take'plkce at a &me $hen.the international situation is 'marked by ,. ( serious tensions' and~difficu?Lties in the politi&l and economic"fields, '&any : -. ,Z'... of these the subject of attention end concern in this Council and in the ' General Assembly.‘ 1~e'.appr&ch the end of 6 decade and‘c,arry over into 'the " 1980s serious diffikltiesknd differences in international relations'and j _ '.: major challenges to all countries and to'the United Nations system; ':: .. - '. I ,' .,' . :*. . .. : '. -. 1... (Mr. Mills, Jamaica) The issue before us, and the circumstances and developments surrounding it may well contain, apart.from their own,particular and'unique features, elements of a broader nature and may - embody lessons for us as 'members of the international community.. .It is therefore important, in the view of my delegation, that, while we address the immediate and imperative concerns, we should seek to . understand such wider implications as may be involved.. In these matters my delegation feels a particular.concern for the role and function of the Security Council and of the.,United Nations system. As a small non-aligned developing country, Jamaica,along with other newly ..A independent countries', seeks always to enhance the role,of the United - : Nations which is vital to our-interests and to our security. :.,,, ,, ,, : The present crisis is a challenge to the' United Nations, and to ., '. all Member States, not least to the.two States directly CbnCerned. , !'!e hope that the Council and the Secret.ary-Ceneral.will.,.be able tO:,p~lay a constructive role in~theresoluti,on,of this problem..;. .' _. .y‘ . : . .., ,_ In all this my delegation pays a.tribute to the i ,,,, :, Ambassador of Bolivia who carrie,d so well the -hea&responsibiliti,e,s of-- . the presidency of the Council in November, and to,you+,Sir, as+you assume,that,., . ., role for the.present month.. .T?e havefull confidence, in*your leadership of ,.. I -_ the Council in these difficult times., _ :, ,, :.- >.. ,.,._,,:, ..:., ,_ Finally, it.is our sincere hope that the United States and.the .' >: ; : '_ .- Islamic Republic, of Iranwill find it..possible to resolve their:. _ -~ . . . . ( ,., _. differences and to establish .smicable.relations. . '.', i_-. ,, ;

The next speaker on my list 'is the representative of Egypt. I invite him to take a seat at the Council table and to make his statement. : .L?$. ABDRL HEGUID (Egypt): It is indeed a source of reassurance at a time when the rule of international law as well as time-honoured customs are at stake that the legendary wisdom of China, as represented by y&l, Mr. President, guides the deliberations of the Security Council. -1 wish to express my delegation's appreciation to and our high.esteem, (Mr. Abdel Meguid, Egypt) for the outgoing President of the Security Council, Ambassador Palacios de Vizzio of Bolivia.. The Security Council is meeting at the request of the Secretary-General. His timely-initiative is highly appreciated and commended. It is a source of satisfaction for my delegation, indeed for all Member States, to note that the Office of the Secretary- General is continuing to perform a central.role as a focal point for endeavours to resolve international conflicts. Egypt wishes to declare its support for the Secretary-General's initiative and for his efforts to resolve the problem under consideration. Egypt's request to participate in the debate on the item under consideration sterns< from.its conviction that respect for, and scrupulous adherence to, the rule of law .is a prerequisite for the maintenance of international peace and security.' It is our considered opinion that world peace can only be attained when all States members of the international community comply with the rule of law and international legitimacy. International law is not the monopoly of any State or any group of States. All States, regardless of their stage of development, their politicalorientation, their spiritual or .religious heritage, have contributed.throughout history t0 the accumulation of-rules to regulate inter-State conduct. One of the first rules universally..accepted was to accord hospitality and safe conduct to diplomatic envoys and.make them inviolable. . Throughout history this rule has been of paramount significance. To demonstrate the importance attached to diplomatic immunities and privileges, scholars and jurists have traditionally adhered to the doctrine of extra-territoriality for diplomatic missions in order to emphasize the utmost necessity of respecting their diplomatic status. The 1961 Vienna Convention reaffirmed the time-honoured customary rules in accordance with contemporary concepts. It was self-evident to the representatives of the international community when they met in Vienna in 1961 that the infringement of this cardinal rule, recognized from'ancient times by all peoples, could have : I grave repercussions on world peace. In point of fact, the 1961 Vienna ..~ Convention on Diplomatic Relations, in its preamble, underscores the ,. %i <i relationship between the respect for diploma&immunities and the' maintenance of international peace and security, aswell as the promotion J . of friendly relations among nations. ; .; Article 22 clearly states that the premises of any-mission shall :. > .; be inviolable. The agents of-the receiving State may not-enter those _' .' premises except with the consent of the head of the mission; also, that 1 the receiving State has a special duty to take all'appropriate steps to protect the premises of the mission against.any intrusion or damage / .: , and to prevent .any disturbance of the peace of,the mission or impairment of its dignity. This basic tenet could find its historical origin in the holy Koran, which says: : "0 ye who believe, enter not houses other than your own, without first announcing your presenc,e and invoking peace upon : the folk-thereof. That is better for'you, that-ye may be heedful." Iran is a party,to the 1961 Vienna Convention. Consequently; it _ is in duty .bound to comply with the letter and spirit of the Vienna : Convention. Such an obligation should not be ignored or disregarded -' under any circumstances. No argument could be advanced to justify an unwarranted disregard of a binding treaty,commitment. The concept of . . respect for obligations and the fulfilment of undertakings .is of paramount ,. importance under Islamic law. The holy Koran, in very explicit words, calls upon all Moslems to carry out their obligations in good faith: "0 ye who believe, fulfil your undertakings." (Mr. Abd.eee&& Emnt) AS a Moslem and a representative of a Moslem country,‘ I must . " ' confess that-all Moslems are concerned and even disturbed by ceriaiti adverse . . : propaganda which Islam is receiving at present. When an-act is committed in .any part of the world, the perpetrators, in accordance &th the most elementary rules of justice, should be referred to by name, if possible, or according to their political motivation or nationality. ~Yet we note with _, regret that certain sectors of the mass media in several countries, focus on our spiritual heritage and not on the nationality or'political motivation. ' A general impression could mistakenly develop that Islam condones such " "' practices as-the taking of hostages. :. ,. .;. I feel i-t'is my duty to'clarify'certain misrepresentations. .Isla$ is a . religion of"justice and not bf revenge; The opening of the scri&ure', --or '..- -*- ._ the essence of the.Koran,'has been called the Lord's prayer'of'thc' "' L " ..'J'.- Moslems and it reads: "In the name of Allah the merciful 'and compassionate".' This is the traditional motto of the Islamic religion.' 'The p&inciple of peace in Islam has its immediate otiigin in man's'faith in God eighty.‘ .. Isl.g is.& religion of tolerance. Islam does"not distinguish between humian'~deings on' the basis of nationality; 'race or‘cblour. 'In Islam the dignity of'& ii' fully recognized, his property~is sacred and his privacy is respected an~d p&&ted;" Moreover, Islsm'givcs prominenck to the establishment of peaceful 'relations'."' among nations. _:. ,. : :::. : Egypt wishes to express its.'grave concern at.the ccntinued holding'of- ,. American diplomats as hostages in Tehran. We have consistently deplored the taking of hostages under any circumstances. It is relevant to recall here that the General Assembly is in the process of drafting an important Convention on the taking of hostages. Article 1 of the draft 'anvention stipulates: t'Any person who seizes or detains and threatens to kill, to injure or to continue to detain another person (hereinafter-referred to as the 'hostage') in order to compel a third party, namely,a State, an international intergovernmental organization, a natural or a juridical person, or a group of persons, to do or abstain from doing any act as an explicit or implicit condition for the release of the hostage, commits the offence of hostage-taking within the meaning of this Convention." (~/~.6/34/~.12, p. 2) (Mr. Abdel Me&d, Egypt) Egypt fully realizes that the situation is fraught with impending dangers. Therefore it is of the utmost necessity for the United Nations toresolve the crisis in accordance with.the purposes and principles of the United-Nations Charter and.the rule of law. .The weight of world.public opinion should be harnessed to persuade the authorities in Tehran to free. the hostages immediately. Any grievances felt by the authorities in Tehran. could be considered on their merits.by the proper authorities within the existing international legal system. It shouldbe made clear, however, that. ,, support for efforts to redress these grievances could be eroded by the . . course of action followed. ..' The Security Council.is at present seized of this.serious.problem. . ,,, The Charter has vested.in the Council the primary responsibility for the ,_-. maintenance of international peace and security. \' Fac.ed with.this respcnsibility, the Council cannot afford to refrain from actively resolving this ,. . . crisis, . . ._ particlarly when the Secretary-General has invoked-Article 99 in calling for the convening of the present Council debate. A possible course of action the Council might consider is the dispatching of a goodwill mission. from the Council to Tehran to ensure the safety and secure the immediate release of the hostag'es. :

I now invite the representative of the Federal Republic of Germany to take a place at the Council table and to make a statement. Baron von WECHMAR (Federal Republic of Germany): Mr. President, I wish to thank the members of the Council, through you, for permitting my delegation to'participate in this‘debate. What is happening in Tehran is an eventwithout parallel in modern times. We are faced with a grave crisis which aZfects not only relations between two great States but the very foundations of the international order. It has caused political leaders all over the world to raise their voices. I would refer in particular to the statement issued by the Heads of State or Government and the Foreign Ministers of the Nine members of the European Community neeting in the European Council in Dublin on 30 November. (Baron von We&mar, Federal Republic of Germany) : The Security Council of the United Nations is called upon to .live up to its..-,, responsibility for maintaining international peace and security. The Government of the Federal Republic of Germany therefore welcomes the Secretary-General's initiative. ' The debate in this forum has reaffirmed the conviction of the community of' nations that the taking of-hostages 'in Tehran is a flagrant viol&ion of the fundamental principles and rules of international law; The taking of hostages .is not permissible under any circumstances or for the,furthering of any aim whatscever. The inviolability of members of diplomatic missions is indispensable for peaceful communication among nations. This is a long-standing principle, which has stood the test of time and which is:respected by'all States regardless-of ctiLtur&l traditions, religion'or ideology. This principle '&:-international law is embodied notably in the Vienna Convention on.Diplomatic Relations, which Iran too'has " (Baron von We&mar, Federal Republic of Germany) Together with the community of nations, the Federal Republic of Germany supports the application of the international conventions based on the principle of respect for the immunity of diplomatic missions. This violation of international law is compounded by contempt for elementary humanitarian obligations. For the past four weeks 5O.hmm beings have been . held hostage under humiliating conditions and subject to severe physical and mental strain. Their suffering is constantly with us. ._ : On 22 November, the Federal Minister for Foreign Affairs, Herr Genscher, stated publicly that: ., ' "The hostages have our sympathy. The American .people deserve our solidarity, and we appeal to the responsible persons in Tehran finally to let the hostages free. The entire community .of.States is.challenged . .-here. No one can remain silent.". Since the day the hostages were taken, my Government has been involved in efforts to bring about an early, peaceful solution. It has been a party to... _- multilateral d&arches 'and appeals , especially within the scope of the European Community, It remains determined to support decisions taken by the Security Council and to assist the Secretary-General in his efforts to overcome the present crisis. In accordance with the United Nations Charter, the Federal Republic of Germany supports the principle of non-interference in the internal affairs of other States. We respect the right of the Iranian people to determine its future in free self-determination and to give itself a new order which is better suited to its wishes than the p‘ast ones. I wish to stress what my.American colleague has already said in this forum, that: -' "None'of us is deaf to the passionate voices thai 'speak of injustice, that cry out against past wrongs and that ask for understanding. There is not a single grievance in this situation, alleged or spoken, that could not be heard in an appropriate forum." (S/F'V.2175, p. 7) But we are convinced that past injustices cannot‘justify further injustice. Events in Tehran cast a dark shadow on the Islamic revolution in Iran and on ehe new course that country has opted for. It would be tragic if the passionate struggle for justice of the Iranian people were to make that people insensitive to violations of the most fundamental principles of international law. (Baron von We&mar, Federal Republic of Germany) .We appeal once again to,those.responsible in Iran to release the hostages immediately and thus again ensure respect for international law; Only thus,:can,, the way be opened for an international ,development in which,legitimate concerns . . and complaints of the Irailian people can be heard. ..(

The next speaker is the., representative of Australia. .I invite him to take a place at the Council table 1 . and to make a statement. . >,;.:, Mr. ANDERSON.(Australia): Mr.,President,.I,thank you and, through you, ,.I . I the members of the Security.Council, for affording,me-this appo-ftunity,,to.,address' .I,. :., .'.I..>..'. ..*a. ,. the Council this evening..,... : , .:1'..' . . . . .., .: ._I The Australian Government has followed with profound concern and anxiety the deepening crisis in relationsbetween Iran and.the;United States. It'has alao : I.. I followed, and it commends, the continuing,efforts towards a solution of the .< . I :_ : .,.._ c cris'is which have-been made by the Secretary-General, by.the President,,of the Security Council and by the President of the General Assembly. On g.November,.~FJr. President, your predecessor expressed the Security . . . . ,. Council's deep -co.ncern over.the prolonged detentiop of ,American diplomatic personnel in-,,Iran. .5-.. eL . . .Re.,.emphasiqed t.hat the,princi,ple of.the inviolability of. -.., , ,c . diplomatic personnel and establishments must be respected in all cases, in 'accordance with internationally acc,epted norms. The actions which have been :' : .._ taken in Iran are.;indced in clear conflict,withIarticles 22 and 29 of the : Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations and are inconsistent with Iran!s responsibilities. as 'a .party to that Convention and as ,a party,to the Convention I' I _ : on the'Pr,evention andPunishment of Crimes against Internationally Protected ..‘ .:: _. Persons. : The Australian Government accordingly affirms its full support for ;. ,...I the President of the,Council, and we join with all previous speakers.in,this debate in urging i,n the strongest terms-that the diplomatic and other personnel , now being held host.age in Iran be released without delay and be provided all necessary protection. Justice and human compassion demand no less; In the letter which ho* nddrrssed to the President of the Council on 25 Novembe the Secretary-General referred first to the problem of the seizure of the l!!b United States mbassy in TehrPn and the detention of its diplomatic personnel, He noted also that the Government of Iran seeks redres.s for injustices and abuses of human rights which in its view were committed by the previous rggime. Australia, which -has a long history of friendly and'coioperative relations with.the people of 1ran;believes that appropriate procedures can be devised within the framework of international relations and international lath to meet those grievances and to resolve those problems. We likewise hope that a. peaceful solution based on'justice and goodtiill '.'-- >. will be found .for all the differences iwhich have.'arisen in relations between t&United States'and'lran. But such an outcome is conceivable only if the Government of Iran on its side observes and ensures respect for international law and the-established norms of the international community by recognizing'fhe'inviolability 6f diplomatic .personnel and premises and'by taking immediate action'to release and give full protection to all those who have been held hostage; " " '. ,I ._:. --The'PHESIDENT (' t m erpretation from'Chinese)f."The ne& speaker is the representative ,of 'Canada. I invite him to%ake.a place at the'Counci1 table and to make a .tat'ement; ., '., : , '_ :. ..'. ,' . , , , . . . . . . : ; : ‘Mr.'-BAHTCN (Canada): .Mr'President', T'am.grateful to you.and the'. Council for making it'possible for'me'to make.this statement on"behalf'of‘the ' Canadian Government concerning the vitallyimportant'issue which ire 'are noti " d&cussing. a .:"i.,' ;. : I ._* : ! : .i-; '.. .,,. $1 'I . :. i:' .' , I My message reflects the same concerns as .have been voiced"by"many others 'in the course'df.this debate. : They have'already been strongly'%xpressedYby'my : :. Prime Minister and by the Secretsry..of State. for~Hxterns.l. Affairs. +In addition, the'canadian House of'Commons.has unanimously adopted resolutions indicating the' SeriOUSne-SS. with which.Canadians view the present situation in 'Iran." Together" . with Other'Governments represented by diplomatic missions in Tehran, Canada has joined in'direct representations to the Government of Iran, and'we have "' associated.ourselves.with the statement of. Commonwealth representatives made on 27 November. But it needs to.be said'again'in this chsmbei'to'make it crystalclear,that Canada, as the next-door neighbour,of the United States, shares' completely the American sense of outrage at the abandonment by.Iran of its solemn obligations under international law to maintain and protect the .immunity of accredited d' 1 lp omats and diplomatic premises. ' Canadians recognize, as do all others, that Iran in the past. year has been undergoing a particularly difficult political evolutionary process and,that there., is a strong sentiment that the.previous administration should be he1d.accountabl.e.. for past injustices. But in-no way does this give licence for the present .: Government to follow the course of action it is now pursuing. :: . . Iran is a.Member of the United Nations. Its future welfare is,bourid,up with the other Members of the international community. 'It could'not live as an,island unto itself, even it wanted to. But if it is to play its proper, role:as a., i.‘.Y:- ., respected Member of .this Organisation; it must adhere to the conventions.and obligations which are essential to the conduct of relations.between::States. .' First .and foremost, it shouldrelease.the hostages immediately;and;provide safe: . . conduct for them from Iran. ,-Once the threat' to diplomatic pe~sonnel:andrpre~e,s,,, has been removed, the international community will be 'in.a-position..to;gBve..~-~:~~,.:. ,:. / consideration to the concerns of the Government of.Iran. ; ,,, ..-:,' ;:-: Ii'. ,.. It has rightly been pointed out,that in this highly.dangerous:situation it ., , ._ . . ., ..-- ,* is vi&l to keep.cool heads.and not to lose sight of,our,go'alto:achieve a' .,,. ,'-,, e peaceful settlement of the dispute. We believe that the United,Nations has.been contributing to this end through the statements issued by your:predecessor, Sir, as President of the Council and by the,President of the.General.-Assembly,:. we also commend the action of the Secretary-General in bringing.the matter before, the Council inexercise of his responsibilities under Article.%of the,Charter. The wisdom of this action has been demonstrated by the measured:and constructive, tone of the debate in the Council. ; We have seen statements in the press that the United Nations gs on,trial over its ability to solve this dispute. Of course, that is nonsense.. No intergovernmental institution can take on the-obligation of individual nations to behave responsibly.. But my delegation is convinced-that,when this crisis is finally resolved, the record will show that the United Nations, through the good offices of the Secretary-General and the many mechanisms it offers for-the airing of differences, will have made a substantial contribution to peace and the harmonization of relations between States.

The next speaker is the c representative of Japan. -I invite him to take, a place at the Council table and to make his statement. ..'i. ~ C' ; _.:'_ " Mr. NISIBORI (Japan): .I : : ,. Let me begin by first extending my congratulations to you,. .. : ., .;?J. -I Sir;on your assumptibn of‘thk"presidency of'the Security .::.: I. Council 'for the month.of December, and &&ndly &&$&sing'& app$eciation to y&u-- :,. _. Vi :. : r . ,,,,.,, _, : and to the members of the Council for 'allowing me to I' ;, 1. .T . ., _ i '1' speak on the vital issue. . a -_ ::. / , which the Council3 is now deliberating. 1. _' h .1" (. _I_ . . -_ . : . . . ion whole-heartedly welcomes the f&-thth'$$ Security'Council' has dlly responded 7 .' * C'. . to. the Secretary-G:eeral's~-r;qukst.; 'based upon &ticle"& of 2" i;., ., _ .y ,. i -5. . ," _ ,. the United Nations Charter, by convening this s&i& of~meetings. ke a;e deeply ' aware that the-tensions of the situation have escalated to crisis proportions,.' not only involving the bilateral,relations of the United States of America and '. .,I'; I. , ..,!.._ ./ -' the Islamic.Republic of.Iran,;but possibly affecting the'r;e~ce?‘~~~d~~stabiiity of . . . :. -.:._ ,, the ,'l-.egion, and, indeed; of the iqtire wo;l-'. :. ,I.' J - -I; ‘z;, -'"..s,,',. in. ,' 2 'The fact that the ~~sue'is of'grave' " ,;:i, L.P;- .I (., : .._ . and vital consequence & the maintenance oh.i~ternati~h~~~e~~e and &c&&y has '., c. been amply demonstrated by thk"delibe&,i&& conaucted~'db,~~~r.in..th~s cha.mbe$. -' '. In the'earnesthope that our participation may.contribute to the work of the . . . ~ :... ,,- - . . . .;, s.y c :p 'i Council, my delegation requeste;l.~~~i~.oppor;tunity.td"expre~s $ts,vieWs.---."' - ,,':i".:,, '~': */y , ,: %irs~ .o'f _ all ;, as ,a comi;y ihi; is, pQndly &' g&d & .u;;$eg &.&& of 1 2; .A:.. .,;! ',... I : : heri& and -the’ Isl&ic ‘Republic ,. ;: :F, '.. -, -,. _, ‘. :“.. :; of Iran, j&$n is” ,&,I; -&-,~~r~e’d ‘$&ii .khe .,.. <.,.-. : ., ., i r: :. . &.'.' ,-I "- situation which has developed since the..unfor&ate s'e~~~~e'of,::~h~"Am~ric~ .-' Y" -. : . Embassy in Tehk.an.. .'.. .; _, " ,; - : 1:. _“.'. ~._i .r ,- 'y'y:", .'.“:y . .I .- .;. : 3:. .. .: ,, ,- pr;L,; ,.. L The fate of the 'hostages is of course:o& ,most profound.concern. Though ' c j .I "', Iran's release of &me of':the hostages'is welcomed: t;lere"i$.do'~~rou~~~t‘yet for“' ';- , ; ' :. -,- the release of the remaining hostages, I... . . , . . I. and Q.& g."i so&'d'&*s.6ri;;s atiiet.. 2: My dei&ga-&n shares the;vie$expressed by othe&,d&&.these ‘deliberation; "' .' ._ . . .'I I' that, in additi.qnto the humanitarian cdnside~~tions;"Che~"~r~~ent:-s~~uation;'- '. : " . regardless'of the'reasons involved; constitutes a deviation fromkie'.~ell- . L " .; : : .'f established norms ofinternational law conce&ing the inviolabiiityof dipl~ma;tic pe;;onnel and, prop;rty.. . . . -" . : .: .'C -*' -: - '- . ,It is our.earnest hope that this critical situation will be resolved with the greatest-urgency and that'the remaining hostages will be promptly released. At the same time, we fervently hope that solutions to the various problems . which lie behind the present situation will be sought with greater earnestness and that in so doing the countries concerned will act with the utmost restraint and deliberateness. (Mr. NfsibWi, Japan) : > .;‘, The Government of Japan has already expressed its concern to the countries direct~yinvolved. '2 ' .'.‘ a‘-.. It-is Japan's intention to'continue to co-o$rate t&ard the' . % '. i__ .' . .' ,. .;a.: i solution of the present situation through whatever avenuesare p&'s"ible. : I2' . . At the " . . ,. same time, Japan strongly hopes that the'deliberations def'the Seo&ity'Council -.'. ._ , ... will contribute to an early and satisfactory settlement &the $robie&“ : . ; i :. i- I. ., ! . .I .-. ,. And, in closing, my 'delegation reaffirms its full'sup&t' for the'continuous ., _'. i .,. -_. .:,:. efforts of the.SecretaryiGeneral in‘using his good.cffices to'facilitate"an early . : . ,- -: ; -1 solution‘tc the problem. *:' ;' ;. f'. . . . * : , '_ . . ._ ‘_ _ : .: :.. ‘. representative of,:Japan for the kind wor& he.a&essed to.me. A. ,. 7 L :: 7: " *AA- --.------.- - . .: .i : ,:h . The next speaker is the 'represe&ative'.of the.i&herlands. '; : : . L . . I inviie hi‘m &. .. -1 :; ,. _" .: >. : .' :. ., ,. ,.: .: I . . :._ _.'. : in.':..":: , ..' __. I :" _' take a place at the Council table and to make his statement. '. t .-. I a .: ,:-..y: ; :. --. ,. .:, :.., i .' : ” , .!. . . .(. _, .s-, I. “Mr. F'resi&nt, I thank you and'thk'other _ -r membersof the Council for,granting 'our re&est to'%& part in &is '&bate."-“ '- _- ,.. ‘. -' . That request was,pr&pted;dy'the grave concern'the"<eople'and the Government of .- .:. _, _ ;_i ,:, .t i.:;. the Netherland's' feel as a result'cf.diplomatic personnel being'taken hostage in -. ,. ..,::. -5 ,'i I, Tehran and of the ~~~~ing'~ension~between~~ran and'the &it&&at&". .:.: ~ .. Whatever grievances a country may kave towards another'country‘- 'andwe are' :. ,.‘ .._ -: I, . . . aware of the depth of feeling in Iran regarding the previous regime - these can . . never justify the occupation of diplomatic premi& and the holding of hostages.' I_ ', ;, Such actions violate the very bases upon which the'-conduct of'intekational .. ./ _' relations is foFded,and has been founded for ages. Since ancient times the &'r. SCHELTEMA (Netherlands): immunities of diplomatic missions have been universally recognized,"fkr.without the strict observance of this basic rule, anarchy would reign and no peaceful solution of disputes - the premise upon which this Organizakon is built - could . (Mr. Scheltema, Betherlands) . . . 1Tot only .has the Vienna Convention. &Diplomatic Relations been violated , but the'events in Tehrkn-&e'&so iti'conflictwith'the draft convention regard& . ,.- I the taking of hostages'.&hich the Sixth &mmittee'.is in the process of finalizing. Furthermore, the Netherlands. GovernmentLbelieves that'a&use of. force : to furtherpolitical ends is unacceptable. "%-. " "-'.* .' In a Parliamentary':motion' adopted un&imously &'2G~Nov&nber~and endorsed by the R&her-lands Government, the Second Chsmberoh the'l\Tetherlands.Parli~~~~ I expressed the opinion that the ocdupation.of the United States>Elnbassy in T&ran and the*takir& as hostages of Americ&n:citizens‘; asj'well as the attitude;of the L Revolutionary Council in Iran towards this-rnatter,"~b'~~~tut;e inadmissible violations ,of international law. The Chambe&'ieqr&sse& the“..h;;e -.th&t‘.the 'I . . . incident would be terminated peacefully. /,.>., '.T L : I',: On 30 November the heabi$"of~State or ? _.. :,, Government and the Foreign Ministers of the nine member~countriesof the' "' &rOpean~COmunity Sta&d in.&&lin ihat failure to'proteci 'di'p;iOhlatid l&~ikiS' "' > .,. .> and the taking of'hostages to exert pressure on Gover~ents are tot&y unacceptable. . . . They called on Iran to observe the established principles hove&n& relations I_ .: '- ‘. ~. between States.' : :_I .-, ._ '. ,_I ',., L., .' .: " - I should like 'to join.the previous. speakers in this debate'who have :.: .1 / :,:. .'. iappealed urgently for the prompt release of the host&s"and their 'safe 'return to'the _: United States,as an essential .precondition to the peaceful'sblut'ion of t& ' ** _ c outstanding issues between the United States and Iran. r _! L ::' ..,,I '(., _ - . . .’ , _. _- ..:.. . The PRESlDRfi (interpretation from Chinese): .The'next'speaker is the representative of Malawi. : I invite him io take a place at the Council table and ta makp hi?: '. ,.. Mr. IGlLJWiti (Malawi ) : Mr. President, I extend to you my delegation's warmest congratulations on your,assumption of the ,presidency of,. the Security Co&cil for the current month. My,delegation is more than.assured: 1. th&t, given-.your sober sense of;.judgement and.fiiploma;tic skill:, y:our stewardship- " ..- ; .:, . . ,, will'enrich and enhance the.,work of this honourable Council.., On behalf of--my ,. :: ; ." ,_ , ; :' ‘_ delegation, .I should also like to salute and thank your predecessor for the . " '.. able and effective manner in which he's.0 admirably graced,the,presidency~of I the Council &u&the course of what turned out to be a,very trying period. . -My delegation is L .:. : I constrained to seek authority to address the Security Council because of.the grave developments that~have been taking place in.Iran ', since 4 ,November last, whendiplomaticpersonnnel of a,Founding,Member of the _-' . .* i i C' -" (' > United Nations were taken hostage on their own premises. ::,--' 3 .,.I- ,': : : .: We seem to perceive a certain degree.of irony in these.developments.. ,. ,.:__ As may be conceded', the tw.i great countries involved in.this.dispute .' . j' ' ,_ ,.* 11 .' were, until a few months, ago?,:friendly.if not ,brotherly.' .Both.countries are,. .~ ; currently led by-God-fearingrgentl,emen and the dispute between :them :-:. .' ::_ .'. -: 1 . I - &uld 'seem to have been precipit.ated:by the question'of,,human rights, . . '&( t - , , ,Sii i Inthis j : . ?...; . . . connexion it might be appropriate to.renark that the two great leaders'concerned are said to be as committed to the question of human rights as one fallen :, il. .a self-proclaimed African empdror:and'one self-promoted and cataptited African 1. ; I field marshal 'were to the physical liquidation of the.ir respective nationals. i ::' But what is intriguing 'about-the current-dispute,which:this Council has . . been called upon to consider, is that those countries have invoked the name of God the Almighty-and Allah the Merciful. ,-Therefore, this fact alone -. .<j : . . ., might augur well for.fhe future efforts of.this Council.. The newly installed Revolutionary Council of Iran may have gone to considerable pains to.highlight.the myriad human rights violations,during the' tenure of the former Government of the deposed Shah. That Council has spared no effort in articulating the fact that several other crimes were committed during the period that the former Government was in.office. Therefore, in an attempt to seek redress for whatever crimes have been alleged, they are asking the current 'host of the former the Government of the United States of America - Shah, who is the accused - to extradite the said accused to facilitate his trial in Iran. (Mr. Muwamba, Malawi ) The Revolutionary Council of Iran might have a case, and it might be conceded here and .n& that Iran.is,in fact.entitled to se& the Shah's ret+n.if it is ,at all true,that the-alleged crimes-&e committed by him or with his approval. It is understood and .appreciated that-vhatercr the crimes committed by the former Government of Iran they were.in fact.punishable under Iranian law. Nobody in his right mind disputes this'fact. But the immediate issue, at leastfrom the viewpoint of the international community, is-the question of hostages who,are currently being held in-Iran.' Iran's grievances against the IShah should'not,:in our view, be'yented through innocent diplomatic personnel.who, .technically'if'not legally, -are the guests of the Iranian Government; While the &lawi Government fully takes note 3f Iran's grievances , it neverthelessis ,unable to'see any justification of that country's decision to take American diplomatic personnel hostage "Accordingly, it is my Government's view that -the.taking of hostages is in itself a violation of internationallaw.. It-isalso_j-the view of ,at least my Government'that the- _ invasion of ,a diplomatic mission b$ the~hostcountry violates international law and diplomatic practice as enshrined in the.various Conventions'relating to diplomatic persons and institutions; .' .. On the basis of what the international community picks up from the-media " .regarding developments in Iran,'mydelegatidn is inclined to the view that the I positions of Iran and the United States, are in fact polarized..:That-being the case, the time might now have come for this Council to act' to ensure 'that, first, the threatened trial by Iran of all American diplomatic personnel in that country's custody is'not carried out; secondly, that the release of those hostages and their safe return home is urgently sought and negotiated for without further delay; thirdly, that the,threatened'flexing of~military~muscle by the United States is thwarted by appealing .for the withdrawal of all the lethal .\ weaponry of destruction which hasnow been 'deployed in the Persion Gulf - if what we pick up from.the pressis correct; (Mr. Muwamba, Malawi) fcurtkly,, that a way must be found to assist the'people of Iran in seeking "' redress for.the various crimes that have allegedly been committed; fifthly, that the inviolability of.diplonatic personnel and.establishments isto be "' reasserted. ..- ,I ,1. '. .i In the view-of my delegation, neither the threatened trial of the .;; hostages nor the threatened possible military reprisals..can be perceived as ' being in consonance with the spirit and letter of the normslconduct ._ : of relations among nations. Accordingly, such threats, ,from whatever source';",' should not and must not be condoned by-this Council; " . .*,. It is our considered'-view that in keeping with.%he 'injunctions of-at ' '. least Articles 2;33 and tiy other related Articles df.the United Nations '.' Charter, this Council should proceed to expicre':&ldiplomatfc, and,therefore" peaceful, options open to'the international community:for resolving:explosiv& situations such as the one that now obtains in Iran:'.'My'own'Gover&ent is ,' total& committed to the-earnest search for peac&i-.Sdlutions-to problems with which the international community might be' confronted. Hence my:'delegation's . , . present plea is th& this'Counci1 proeeed.along these'lines: &ir:'Pres~dent;'. I wish you &d the Security Council'-eveti &uccess'in.this delicate but 'I noble task. ' ' "' ,... J :: \ ._ . . 1 :. ,“ b s. ,.

I thank.the' "' .. represexit&ive of Malawi'for his kind words'addressed-&me.' " '. The next speaker is the representative of-Italy. I'invite 'him to take a place .at the Council tabie. Mr. LA ROCCA (Italy): Mr. President, ' at this time of deep concern for the entire international community regarding the crisis which has occurred in the relations between Iran and the United States of America and which has prompted the Secretary-General, in a most timely move, to -call for an urgent meeting of'this Council under'Article 99 .of the ChiLrter, it is gratifying for my delegation to see that the proceedings of this Council.are to t‘ake place under your wise,and highly experienced leadership. We trust that under your guidance the Council will succeed in its efforts to bring about a peaceful solution to this crisis - efforts so effectively initiated by your - (Mr. La Rocca, Italy) predecessor, Ambassador Palacios de Vizzio of.Bolivia. The inviolability of.diplomatic personnel and;premises is, in my Government's view,, the most basic .condition.for the:.or,derly development of international relations. May I also recall, in this regard, the statement issued by the Heads.of State and Government and the,Ji'oreign Ministers,of the Nine States members of the European Community.in Dublin on 30 November. .- Should the rules of international law, which have &en-observed for centuries under all civilizations and have been recently codified,in the Vienna: Convention of 1961, be waived under the pressure of grievances, however deeply felt or widely shared by the .people of a nation,,the ,yhole.s,tructure of international relations would be threatened.with.$ollapse. .z The detention 8 of.the American diplomatic personnelin Tehran is ?h-erefore totally : ,,..,:: L 1,_. /_ I unacceptable:.to my Government, and we urgently, appealtothe Iranian Government to put an immediate .end to this state. of,affai,rs.. .t .., .,f: ,' __:.. : I,, My Government,understands the feelings.,and emotions which inspire the,.:, : .Iranian people: at this time. i The President.of the,Italian;Republic is:on ::., _ : record.as.having protested, months'before-the departure. of,the Shah-of sr~,. . . _.. -. .against the oppressive nature of.hfs rF$gime..and its massive violations I ,. of the human rights of the Iranian people. In addressing an appeallto the, liusm Khomeini on 23 November for the release of the hostages, Pres.ident Pertini recalled, his previous .stand in the .foUowing.words:; :, ltYj;;i:; ,.L..i. . . _, ".l . . . .:. . . "I protested,officially against the Shah.when.he:was.~oppyess~qg human rights in-Iran.. l',received and..helped Iranian,.students;wfio,,,had sought refuge at that time here in Rome and were in fear of being extradited. I opposed their extradition, which would have meant their.death. I.did all that for the cause of human. rights, on .d .*. / behalf of which I have struggled .all my.life. ,: )_ (. ,! ., "Today, in the name of those same rights;1 appeal-to you.to: ) intervene on behalf of the American hostages. You cappot allow the ,. ?ranian,people to commit, the same violations.which,were committed by. the:Shah. Please do not let-this appeal go unheard." It is in the light of this stand, publicly taken by the highest authority in my country, that my Government.feels entitled at this stage to call upon the Government, on both legal and humanitarian grounds, Promptly.. to redress the violations of international law which have occurred.in that country and to allow the hostages to return; free and unharmed, to their families, to whom we wish to take this opportunity to express our deep sympathy. Such an action will, inter alia, allow for a much more dispassionate examination of the grievances of the Iranian people by this.Council, before which the Government of Irar'will have the full right, as.do all sovereign. : Governments, to put. their case. The latter could, alternatively; be examined by any other body which might be set up through peaceful negotiations by the parties concerned, or.through the good offices of the Secretary-General. However, it is quite obvious that such a dispassionate debate would be 1.. almost impossible under the pressure of a situation which poses a grave threat to the peace and security of a region and of the world as a whole. We therefore again -appeal urgently to the Government of Iran to free the hostages.without further delay. / ._ /.. 'The PRESIDENT (interpretation from Chinese):. Thenext speaker is the representative of Panama. Iinvite him to-take a.place at the Council, table and-to make his statement. . Mr. ILLUECA (Panama) (interpretation from Spanish): Today the Security Council is'.facing a host serious institutional crisis 'and the fact +. that China-has*assumed the presidency of the highest political organ of .' .. the United Mations at this histori; c&roads gives"rise to well-founded I'.,. hopes‘inthe minds of the people'of the world that &se and peaceful .. ' formulas will be found to solve the problem referred'to the.'Security'Council Y ,by the Secretary-General in his letter of 25 Nove&er"(S/l3646) in keeping . with the principles of justice and international la;.-*.&. Presid&t,'we trust‘that'you will.lead the Council towards effective solutions with-the dignity,and:wisdom that characterize you. 1 '. .'. ,, .-In the difficult work being done to achieve'this objective, your .f dis&guished predecessor; the representative"of Bolivia. Mr. Sergio Palacios de Viz&o; ' openeda broad path towards 'the peaceful '.. ii, .' restoration of.infringed rights when, as:President'and on..behalf of 'all ; 7 the members,of the Security Councii, _,. _ -D he macie &; Xekbricai; ;tati&;--t;:, .. . . -. .:- ., .: on 9 November‘and 27 .Xodember lg.9 in which the repeated decision.of"the . . _ Security'.‘Councii was included,urging the Government 'of Iran to respect'the. . ..I. '* .,.. I i principle of the inviolability of United States di~lorn~tic.personnei.and';,. * :, premises in that country &accordance irith internatio&ly ackepted '. . ‘.Y. . . '.i : ; standards.~*:'The‘Council, therefore-, most s&ongly urged that Govern&'& -' ' " . _. r .' ,_ to release without delay the diplomatic p&&nel detained in Iran and to . ' " give them the necessary protection and it instructed the Secret&&eneral :: ,': to use his good offices to achieve that objective. The&"&an be'& doubt e... . that the outgoing President's conduct lived up to the high Latin American. .':,. legal tradition legal tradition and deserves the warmest congratulations. and deserves the warmest congratulations. (Mr. Illueca, Panama) On 25 November 1979, in a-gesture which called for international acknowledgement, the Secretary-Ceneral,pursuant to the terms of Article 99 of the Charter, requested a meeting of the Council in view of the'grave'situation that _.. :. had occurrod in the relations between the United States and'Iran, which the . ' SecretaryGeneral defined as follows: . . . . :. ,,- - . . * ,. "The Government of the United States is deeply disturbed‘at the seizure of its Embassy in Tehran and the detention of.its diplomatic personnel-, i. . ..'* 7. ,> . . ‘ _~_ in violation of the relevant international conventions. The Government .,. . . '_ of Iran seeks redress for injustices and abuse of human rights which, in its view, were committed by the pretious'ri?gime . .I . . . t%e dangerous level of , , . --.'., : . i' tension between these"two countries threatens peace and stability]in the '. region and could have disastrous consequences fr)r the'entire'world -.. _.. .: . "In-my opinion, therefore;.the present crisis'poses‘a ierious threat : to‘international peace and'~ec&tytr. (S/1364;)” .' .y ._., Z,’ : 1 .I ,_.l . . . ‘;,. _, .,‘._ ::. ‘;.. The situation in Tehr&, however, is marked by one very specific feature, . . ._:. .' : ., as was stressed last night. in this very Council. It is the fact.that..the .., .-.:. '.':.,;‘ ', -f ,, ,,;. .I. ,. ~ violence of the armed band that invaded~the Mission‘is being defended and .' -. -i,, '., I -, ., '. ,i. . -f."- : . '. supported by the Government of Iran. ._ The Iranian Government has furthermore . .',; announced its intention to try the hostages for alleged violations of the . '.> '_.. : ..,. , .,. security of the State. Among the Embassy staff apparently involved are the ' .; '. Chargk d'Affaires, Mr. L. Bruce Laingen, and two other American officials who, '- according to today's news, are to be tried on espionage charges. They are being . ,' . . held in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in open violation of universally accepted standards of international conduct. There is a unanimous feeling in the international community in favour of scrupulous respect for the inviolability of diplomatic missions and the personnel who'serve in such establishments. That sentiment was evinced last night in this very hall by the 15 delegations which participated in the debate, representing as they do all regions of the.world and more specifically the Nordic countries through the representative of Norway, the nine States members of the European Community through the representative of the United Kingdom, and the President of the Organization of.African Unity (OAU) through the representative of Liberia. (Mr. Illueca, Panama) Similar appeals .for the withdraw& of the Iranians from"the occupied Embassy ._ . . and the reieasd of the'hostages w&eissued~by the President of*the'G&erd'.-- "' ~ssenbly of the United N&ion's, Amba;saaor .S+lim y&+.$ shh. -6 ‘.j.. & yogy of the Organization do American States- (OAS)'. .. ,I .-~. .*' i' :. ,\. ;: '--:;, :' The crisis i&t has &used the'.Council'tb"~~~t'~d~~ d&s n&~on&n~the '.'- United'Stat& alone; It 'affects'-esuallf;“ail~St;rtes &&b&s of the‘- >' '.' i. international community; and it' is' for this re&&i"that'my del?egation w&&d to I I exercise its right to participate in this debate, which is one of the most' ' s-eridus in the his&y of the United Nations': -~'For"any's&ll country such-as Pan&a, 'the rtie ,of law .ii international..8f~~~r-s' isb.h~~.g~~&~Y& :;&quiremgnt;" -:. 1 .) '. ..oiir position is' rielt~~~ opportunistic nt~r ,cif~~siant~ai ;, Qiih ihe b&e determination t~th which Panama' aefmak';z' t~e!i~~~~~~y ‘df' .~~~O;Sdi'~s .opeiat~d', respecii+ely; by. t;he 'cubgn and 'soviet; ~~~~~~~~~~~ -'ili;;lj,: <iF&. Aaw&i$:iitLin,a in the' Panama C&nal in Octobiitr',.1g73 ," tiy+ do..trG yw '.$yks to.. -&egi;d. th&sk' . '::' .f _ j _ very .principles which we dee&to be..-essential-to peatieful int&&ional ' c "' ' ‘_ .,. , . ;":L. coexistence;.. \Je wish t'o &ate .& ih& p6‘i.n& ho$' ~w&& :it i&'f&&-+&& &g& of the unite& ~~~~~~~~ as 'w-eil as i ;gor.' 'ibternaiioLai .pea&G 's;l .s&c&i&s;'.'th& th&'Ftli : . . . . . Sec&ity coundil negbtiate: Gtirid s&c&e". th& evacbai'$on ,i;&' & uni$&-f &.&& : '. " I?. hbassy~unlatitily oc&ulj-ie'd. inL T&&& 8~+&t~~r.ltie~~~~~ r;i~Y&.-of. .&-;*. 5o: , i. -", (' :I members of its diplomatic personnel h&d iii that' build&g as"ho&ages: '. i; I think it timely to recall that this position of principlei'whi& Pan&$" has adopted together with other Latin American States regarding the.privileges and iarmunities both of States and of their diplomatic'missions and personnel was put to the test at the time of the detention on 2 October'1973 in Balboa in the former Canal Zone of the vessel "I&as" , the property of the Cuban Government, pursuant to 'an order handed aown by the United States Federal court. A few days later the "William Foster", a vessel operated by the Government of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics, was also detained by order of the same United States Federal Court on 12 October 1973. Both'vessels were.detained.by the United States authorities when they intended to pass through the Panama Canal. In both cases, Panama stated that it recognized the sovereign immunity _ . . _:_ ‘. enjoyed by the '%&as" .Iand the, "William Foster" and protested against the : action taken by the United States. t: *! <I. The position ofthe Panamanian Government ', was favourably commented upon in the general debate of the twenty-eighth regular,qession of the General Assembly of the United Nations‘and doubtless 9 ::..; I. constituted a valuable.contribution, consistent with the fundamental principles I' a ~. ,.: -~ which are.incorporated in the jurisprudence of international canals and-their .: . . operation. : . . . : I think it,only fair to-say that the State Department,of.the United States,' ._ ;a.;. .: : acting on the Panamanian appeal, recognized the immunity of.the:vessel "Imsas" . , ,. which was, in due course, released. A few days later the s&&'action was taken _ - _ with respect to the Soviet vessel, the' "William Foster“. *: .: :.-. In the ‘i :, specific case before us, force was used and acts of violence were -. : . _' committed by:armed bands whose .action has clearly been supported by.the Iranian _: . Government in violation of universally applicable conventional standards and ,,. ',. cust0yy-y practice. It is therefore obvious that the.threat to international _ . ,.,. peace and security derives f:rom an illegal act attributable to the'Iranian .:., . .:. Government, consisting .: ". of the continued unlawful.occupation'of..the United States t . Embassy building in;Tehran ,and the subjection 0f.it.s diplomatic personnel to '-. ,. humilitating' indefinite arrest and to punitive action.in blatant transgression of conventional standards. z, , . . . (Mr. Illueca, Panama) . . :. . . (Mr. Illueca, Panama) The problem which the Council has the obligation to examine is, specifically, the occupation of the:.United States fibassy and the.detention . of its diplomatic pers,onnel.- The Secretary-General points out that the redress that the Government of Iran is seeking for the'injustices and abuses.,,of human ., " rights which that Government believes the previous rggime to have committed _', should be considered in a.different forum from the.Security Council and in . . other, more propitious, circumstances. ; ._ , .' This in no way means that Panama does not agree that responsibility must.,:be determined forthe criminal and inhuman,acts carried out by the members Of the previous rggime headed by.the Shah or-even that he should be extradited through . ...' legal and diplomatic means , should that.prove necessary. : ,. , ..:i *, The peoples throughout the world nold.that,those.who flagrantly violate : .': :;, . . : .: human rights should be judged for their:.c.rimes 1 and there .are.many..~ho call . . for the.establishment of internationaltribunalswith .competence..to deal with such matters, in the style of the Nuremberg.tribuz+. Unfortunately,.' : those tribunals do not exist,. but without any:;doubt they would, if created, be cOmPetent.to bring to .justice -; _ although,.this 1ist;is not, exhaustive .': the ~ ..' deposed Shahof,Iran,.Idi Amin.,of Uganda,:Bokassa of the ..erstwhile Central,. _,, ,_, ). .: African Empire, now a Republic, Somoza of- Bicaragua.and:,Vorsterof South _ .,.., :., . . . Africa, all of whom have's debt.to'pay..to:-the international community and;to.their _ . .. y ,. own peoples in the area of human rights .'. '. .' .,;: . Every political event reflects immediately preceding history. ,The ,' serious events in Tehran are closely Pinked with otherviolations of international law and of the principles of the United Nations which still await solution. and which are a permanent source of frustration, disappointment and bitterness for many peoples in different regions of the world. There is much.' accumulated resentment. For this reason the Security Council is bound to make use of all means at its disposal to put an end to the mprecedented situation which calls us together, and not to make international life'more dffficult or the future of humanity more complex. The wise judgement, the political experience and diplomatic skill of the President of the Security Council and of*its members will, without doubt, make it possible to find the tiays and means to that end,.including if necessary the presence of Council members in some form in Tehran as special representatives of the international community. That is an approach which would.adequatefy respond to circumstances and would make it clear to the Iranian authorities that it is n&'.only the:United..States that rejects and condemns the violation of its diplomatic headquartersand ,the : reprehensible detention of its .personnel; but,that it is?join‘ed by. all those represented here. ',. ,: : . :'; .:' 7. In saying this, my delegation also speaks in its own interest. Indeed, for a small country, existence-as a nation is only possible-in a.world in. which law-and order prevail. The sole weapon, the only defence~of a small nation lies precisely in the maintenance of the legal system that governs international relations. Once. this system is shattered;.onceits principles are violated, only the-law of-the strongest will prevail -%nd,inthat case it would never be the smallnations whose.rights and freedomsywould be: .. '.. defended and safeguarded.:.Thus;.when requesting.that the:Security Council take .. firm action in the.defence of the hostages in Tehran,:Panama is.;also.,defending " the vital principles that may serve it.for'its own development,~ its own.peace and its own welfare. . . I?; ...) :.>l: -: .: ,,., "b_:.,. .:._ To conclude, 'I'believe that I echo.!the'.opinion‘of broad sectors of... . : Latin America and of.many' peoples of.other regions.of.,the'third!world when.. I appeal to the Iranian authorities to..cease.theirillegal and inhuman ,. -; detention of persons who are protected by internationallaw and:.who.are;.*in fact, guests detained in contravention of all rules, principles and ethics, whether of the East or the West. In situations such as the present one, any event may detonate an explosion with incalculable consequences, which would affect us alland from which we would all suffer equally. The P?GSIDEFT (interpretation from Chinese): I thank the representative of Panama for the kind words he addressed to me. The next speaker on my list is the representative of Yugoslavia. I invite him to take a seat at the Council table and to make his statement. Mr. KOMATII'JA (Yugoslavia): May I congratulate you, Mr. President, on your assumption of the presidency of the Security Council for the month of December, and express my delegation's conviction that, under your able guidance, (Mr. Komatina, Yugoslavia) the Security Council will be able to contribute to-a successful solution of this problem as well as other major issues.on the Council's agenda. It is also a great pleasure for me to congratulate your predecessor, Ambassador Palacios de Vizzio of .Bolivia, for the most effective way in which he contriubted to the work of the Council last month. ..:.' Through you, 1.b. President, I.wish to thank the .other members of.the Security Council for having given me the opportunity to,participate in the debate on this important question. In the statement made by the spokesman of'the Federal Secretariat for -.. Foreign Affairs on 27 November,.we -welcomed the.initiative of the Secretary-General : in requesting that the Security Council,be convened.:..Indoing.so; we proceeded : d. from the.-assumptionthat what is involved-.here.is. a grave. crisis,-.fraught with. : unforeseeable.consequences for peace in the region and in the world,at larger : We also proceeded from a conviction>that in this, as well as,in similar. :' -. b j I ituations involving international disputes and the. need for their'peaceful :; solution, the role of the United Nations is irreplaceable.. We consider that ..: the United Nations is ~the~most.appropriate~forumin which.to.deaP :?ith every 'i .' crisis, including the present dispute'which has arisen..between the. Islamic 'L Republic of Iran and-the United States.of.~America;l .': ': .';. " ; ,. .', *. _. ._ : 1‘ . ./. . 1.1 _ ' ::,,'.'.' _* ': i ; I : .,. : :,I, I . . ; '. I.,. .- ; ,.:. _' :. _, _I _ 1 .>.I' . j.. : ‘._I’, .-_ _*. ‘L’ ’ . . ., 1-a. .-- - _ .-. ; -_ .’ . ,., ..,: : .(Mr. Komatina, Yugoslavia) a Yugoslavia has constantly insisted on the need to respect the'fundsmental principles which constitute'the basis of international relations.~ In this ,. .,. regard, we have laid particular stress onrespectfor indepdndence, sovereignty, ..A ..*_ territorial integrity, peaceful settiement of,disptites; non--u&' of,force, . 'non-intervention and the right of every people'freeiy to deter&r&its social, .., ; economic and cultural develobment and its socio-$olitical 'system without outside interference. .' The observance of these principles;'. which‘.have become'+& 'patrimony of '. international law and are embodied in the Charter of the UiCted Nations and in . the policy of non-alignment', .: is a prerequisite for' the"$&eful ~solution of .internationti problems and.consec&ntly, for 'the~!mai&nance of peace and .' s&ur~& in' the‘world. : . : : ‘, ,“., , ; . - . . : .r, . >’ - : . , ij,,,&; ;;$;orte'd‘ the &kes effec'ied : I " > I .,I.. . . . I .I I . . in Iran in the course of its independent develd~~en~;.trhich'are the results of In couformity with these princi$les, the efforts of thk'Iranian people‘ t'c;.'defend its'i'dk;;~ity.and'ii~h~ to determine- . , its own destiny.' We haeve w&lkomed $&,,g de&i;&~ &I;'-~j.& ihe. &-.&gned * Wo&ment,.which points to the authentic c'haradteS'$tho t&&sfo&nations in that ;..._,-_ : country: We are'convinced'that Iran will h&'a& i&$&ant place and role in the struggle for the implementation of the prin&les andobjectives of the '%' ;... -':,. policy of non-alignment. "On the road 'of national“em&cipation'the I&&an- : people are encountkri&va$ious difficulties that are a'legacy of the past . . inherited'from the previous r6gime. :..: .:, It is the duty of the international community and of all of us; while 'strictly observing the principle of non-interference, to help the Iranian seople'td devote its,energies tdthe development of its. independent and sovereign country; This would contribute to the stabilization of conditions in thatcrucial. area of international : relations, which is of partiklar importance to world.$eace." .' ' The protection of diplomatic missions,' respect for thc'immunity'of diplomatic representatives and the prohibition on taking hostagethe uersonnel of diplomatic missions tire component parts of those universal principles the observkce of which is indispensable to stable relations bet&e& States-and to every effort :. * :r i (Mr. Komatina, Yugoslavia) . . . ,' --. . "2 exerted for the peaceful solution of disputes'and$the strengthening of ..: 4. : , ! I;.., . ') ‘.lii ._ _ z-1 _ co-operation on the basis of equality of rights. This important'problem has its ,; _ ‘. : .- ",, . ,., ; ._ . 'y'-/: ._: !' .,-rl: '.:a, - :,.*!; F.1 .". ., : ; '*.$, ‘..A .; ; .<J' '; -j I _: :.. ,-: : .I ',? political, legal and humanitarian aspects., For this,.reason, we consider it . .,, . k! .: ':. i.*('." .‘ .;, necessary to observe the norms of international law which have been codified, in the field with which we are concerned, in the 1961 Vienna Convention on Diplomatic 'J .,. . 3 ,; - .:i _: _' : ',,i> ~ _..'. ,. T .I :" : ;: * ..,* .,_". r . . : . . I : Relations. Furthermore, gs we are all awtis, a draft conve.ntion,~against..~he :: I ,...T -c .I,, . i : taking of hostages is being worked out in the United'.Natfonshwithin the framework : !. .A,> _ : _ .*_ .i : :.. _- . 3; pi .- : .' .‘.. + L . i of necessary additions to exist,ing,international instruments for the .development : , ,; i, _-: .; I.2 &> A> - ; I' ,1, 5. _ .:. .' .f ; ',I :.. / .' :. ! of an international legal order. + d : . i : We are firmly convinced that the liberation of-the hostageswould contribute _'. . ..i : 1 ' Y: .i . ':' : -;;: i.' ,, y:“,-,+ :, '1 /I. 1. s . "1. ,:,..:-,y; . . *-,; : I to the,.creation .of a climate ,of mutual confidepce,anq:respe~t~.;.~to-trie I' - ! , '.G : I \,- - i. ' : _' ; _ ,,' _- "' .. ,:, .: '. .; jl r::: i ,'.>I ia.- .:* .; __. .' ,i, .,z;:: :. .? : ,I establishment of constructive relations on a basis of equality between Iran and :,_i:.. ., - I :_ . : %: .I " ) "' :’ i:-. .-!‘. .i. 1 _.,; l :..i:: .! : I. .the United Statesand'to the solution on thil.bisis of& international law and the,..,, ‘_ j’ .:: * ; /,.:‘i: :,~~.‘.: : ..i ” . : ” - _ . . * ,:,:. :‘-.:,.:..i ;. : .: : ,_ .: I’,. ; : Charter of,the broader is-sues and grievances raised..by.Iran. This would.,contribute ,.‘I. ,. ; ., i_' . ".:I .- : :-.. :-'.,:.s. : .# .,,:.. ,, ,..'.‘ 1-t .,, __, '3 :. <'e..'q 1 ( _,_, *,;,,. 2;‘ to the relaxation of tensions and the,,safeguarding of,pe&e;,thst~is, to,the,,,,-+ -. : _ : . I ,, : - .: .., ,,' _ ..' I ,.. 1. :::;. '. .: -.. . . . , ..T.C . , achievsment, of-the/objectives towards which,the United Nations and all of us are ., . . ,_, <, .i.^ : '.,.: '..I:- L 3. .:* _ ( '.". ., .‘i :::e'z. .'L.. _ -.:-.;1. _ ._'. ,1 .L :; . striving. ;- -' .,T? the.rf+& a~aly~.~s.,, ., ,_.,'.. it.would contribute to the further consolidation .- ,. L'. i < : :. f;- - -...... -,+.T _ i _._: , . *': *.. "Z,,$.< ., ,c ;- .,_ 4.' / ;_, _ .$>-'-i.,' 8: of-.the. Ir?+= rwp$ion, ani: lo the realiza~i~,~-.o~_f;he.,aspirations qf,.t+ ,.,,_ TL _ _,... ,.~ ';%'.. . ._'_. ; .' ?j. . . -.-,,, I'.‘ . .: ; ,. , ' :::-: ,.. ^. Iranian. people.. ._ _.,,. : . _., _ :-.:.:.I:.. .‘."? :T*<:.; _i., .,I .*- :; . . ..'I I. .[,. v.io. !a,<' :;>-* 3. -J;i, 1. ,. . . 1. . ., , .:. y 2-z . ~Cn this basis,we supported.the statement of:~~~e,,,Pres~,g$pt of the Security ..'. _, -:*. ,: , " . _ _ : : ;:, . ..-..'2.' ; .; _ .:..::‘ , _ : Council. on the freeing of.&neri.Fen hostsges.and t&vacation of the.Rmbassy, ..: T.'.. .: ‘. .; _A j,- '>,:-:. j ;. ._ . :. . i i : I. '. ".." : .- :, 'Z>. 8.: .,i?.'.'_ ', -' .' premises,,.and we hope that the result of the current mestin,gy, ofXtheXSecu$ty,rL .: ._ ,-i-. '; 1 .'.:- 5' ,, . I,,. * _ .‘.. ._ . . . . . .I, :, *' Council will be a positi.vs, cgnt,r~but~on,towards th,at end and to,the. peaceful -.' ,; .'.!'. L.. ^ .*,: ; . ,:' 'C.1.. _ .: ; ._ .- ..' ._ &.-.-‘ 'j' ‘... ,r':a ..‘ i->“? .%' ,< settlement of the dispute between th,e Islamic Republic of Iran and the United ,.:.,,;.y:.. ,.:: .';; _. ..I ;..- **.,s-..'..' , i_;j,‘ _,j '2 -I >". ,.__ I_ ','>i ,:,c?:'-,<;;'. States. We..feel.that the Security Council&pp't,he Secretary-Ce,neral should ,: l.... '. .'j _' I. ' _ .!,a.. -.' :: ; ,':.. I .L j r s-,;', !- .' continue.t.o,.exert efforts to bring about an,equitable solution. . r I.,. _ s . . : -. i ,. .. "."- .:.,'- 'p'j.‘ .:.",'s ?. - ,,i l.:',*:r'./ , r - ,-.Y 1 * ',',; 1 i :_ ~, ? . _, ;':: 1, _. . . Proceeding from positiyg .of principle ?. we hay:.: ystqWy yF+C ,e+,rty, :.,.y ,.. ,,, : .,. I , i ,. ..-,-. ,, " I in the.,search ,~orpeace.fulsolut.~ons to all disputes, particularlv,crises,.that . * . threaten"&terna&&~,,peace and seT$ty, .:...::. . . . :1.' _.-.; ,.; - ',&_*. I. _._.? ,.::. on the-basis of strict observance of. .::. _ I,: .'-',I: :.; !L..‘. ; , ,';‘:-*". 3. _ ',,:, .^ ,- ihe Pro~siqp pf $he .~yif~$ &&I@, Q&&?. the :,,p&!ciples ; ybydfe.$., ?n21$z$e ,. 4:: _. ., . ..>' .,. rl. .I:: . . '.,;, policy.of non-alignement and respect for internstional tre~~e.s,and,conve;ntions~, : . . . :.. _ I. This time also it is our wish to contribute to an easing.of tens‘ion and to the maintenance of peace, because we are obviously faced with a serious problem involving basic principles of international relations, in the settlement of which'all of us should participate. (Mr. Komatina, Yugoslavia) It is therefore-necessary to give proof on all sides of restraint, r responsibility'and realism and'to make use.'of all means likely‘to lead to a .,y...' 1 id lasting and peaceful settlement. . i .: '. The'PRESIDENT .(interpretation.from Chinese): I thank the representative .,,, I~ . ..I. : '- of Yugoslavia for'the"kind words he addresse$ to.rne. .'* The next speaker is the representative of Spain~ I invite him to take a place at the Council table.and to make his statement," "' .' : ” Mr. PINIES (Spain) (interpretation from Spanish): I should like to '.' express to the Secretary-General my appreciation'of'his'commenda~le decision to call this meeting of the Security Council. _ ~. I-shou‘id like also to thank you, ;- Mr. President, for allowing me to'take part in-this'meeting,.and 6tlSo to:. ~. congratulate the President for last month, the Ambassador"of'Bolivia,;on'the work the Council accomplished under his skilful guidance. In the events that are at present taking place in Iran peace and security in international relations are being violated in new ways;- It is the very legal '. . . structure that'"'makes peace possible'- n&ly,'the 'norms of'international-'law and in particular the Vienna Convention on diplomatic and consular relations - that is facing its greatest threat in recent times,' : The taking of hostages, not by an uncontrolled mob but with the consent of established authority, opens a breach in international relations the consequences ', of which are unforeseeable and could have catastrophic repercussions. -_> . My country, which understands the efforts'of the Iranian people .to choose new roads towards governing its future and is aware of the obedience owed to other basic principles of international law, such as respect for national sovereignty and non-interference in domestic affairs, considers that the violation of the laws protecting diplomatic personnel and premises cannot be justified in any way, that the persistence of the present situation erodes the credibility of the Iranian political process and that a positive and immediate so1ution.woul.d hasten the achievement of Iranian aspirations. My delegation therefore endorses the content of the declaration made by the outgoing President of the Security Council a few days ago and reiterates the appeal made on 23 November by the Council of Ministers of my country, which instructed the Spanish Ambassador in Tehran to make known to the Iranian authorities, recalling the good relations Spainmaintains with the Islamic peoples, our profound'concern at the existing tension; and to join other accredited Ambassadors in Tehran in working for the speedy liberation of the personnel who are being detained, in contravention of the law and international agreements,,and for, their return safe and sound to their country.-

There are no more . speakers inscribed on my list. I therefore intend to adjourn the meeting now. After consultations, the next.meeting of the Security Council to continue consideration of this item will take place tomorrow, Monday, 3 December 1979, at 4 p.m. The meeting rose at 9.2CP.m.