Iranian President marks Srebrenica anniversary: Silence enabled the genocide – the same is happening in Gaza

“I extend my greetings to the noble souls of the martyrs of Srebrenica and pray for God’s mercy upon them, as well as for patience and dignity for the survivors,” Pezeshkian wrote.

He emphasised Iran’s long-standing alliance with Bosnia and Herzegovina since its independence, reaffirming Tehran’s moral and political support for the truth about Srebrenica. That support, he noted, includes backing the recent United Nations resolution designating July 11 as the International Day of Remembrance of the Srebrenica genocide.

"Srebrenica was a stain on global diplomacy"

Calling the 1995 genocide “a shameful stain on the history of diplomacy,” President Pezeshkian directly criticised the inaction of the international community.

“Srebrenica was a failure of the international community to protect helpless refugees. It reminds us that commitment to human principles requires firm, justice-driven action, not hollow slogans or false neutrality,” the Iranian president stated.

Gaza draws a direct comparison: "We are witnessing a new genocide"

Pezeshkian went on to draw a pointed parallel with current events in Gaza, warning that the same patterns of international negligence and civilian targeting are being repeated on an even larger scale.

“Sadly, the tragic scenes from Srebrenica are now being replayed, in even greater numbers, on Palestinian soil. The staggering number of civilian martyrs, particularly women and children, and the widespread destruction of infrastructure represent an alarming humanitarian catastrophe,” he warned.

He insisted that remembering the Srebrenica genocide should not end with a memorial ceremony.

“Commemorating Srebrenica is not just about ritual. It’s a moment to reflect on the lessons of the past. If those lessons had truly been learned, we would not be witnessing genocide again in Gaza,” Pezeshkian added.

Iran reaffirms support for peace and Bosnia’s sovereignty

The Iranian president also underscored Tehran’s commitment to stability in the Balkans, describing Iran’s regional policy as one based on respect and peaceful coexistence.

“The foreign policy strategy of the Islamic Republic of Iran in the Balkans is based on safeguarding peace and security. Our stance toward Bosnia and Herzegovina is grounded in respect for all its peoples and full support for its sovereignty and territorial integrity,” the message read.

In closing, Pezeshkian issued a global call to action:

“Thirty years after Srebrenica, the memory of the victims must live not just in our tears and hearts, but in courageous efforts to build a more just and peaceful world, one in which the dignity of every human being is sacred, whether in Srebrenica, Gaza, or any corner of this planet.”