RUZAIK FAROOK
COLOMBO — Dr. Alireza Delkhosh, Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran to Sri Lanka, attended a ceremony at the Fathima Orphanage and Ladies Hostel in Colombo on Wednesday April 29 April an event dedicated to support orphans and promote humanitarian initiatives.
During the visit, the Ambassador interacted cordially with the children and participated in the programme, which symbolically brought together orphaned students and remembrance of the martyred school children of Minab in a shared classroom setting reflecting hope and solidarity.
In his remarks, the Ambassador also stressed that civilians, particularly children, are protected and inviolable under armed conflict, describing this as a peremptory norm (jus cogens) of international humanitarian law. He further stated that on 28 February 2026, U.S. missiles deliberately targeted not only the Minab girls’ school but also, “the very heart of humanitarian law,” resulting in the martyrdom of 168 “little angels.”
On behalf of the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Dr. Delkhosh also presented charitable donations to the institution, emphasizing Iran’s commitment to humanitarian values, social welfare, and support for vulnerable groups in Sri Lanka.
The ceremony further included a message read by a student representing the children and teachers, expressing gratitude to the Embassy’s support and describing it as a lasting gesture of kindness, while also conveying sorrow for the loss of innocent lives and hope for a world where every child is protected, loved, and cared for.. The envoy also donated a large Iranian carpet to the orphanage.
President of the Fathima Orphanage M. Fowziya Junaid, Secretary Nilufer Akbar, Chairperson Zaima Macky Hashim with members including Principal Mrs. Zainab Barry were also present.
