Nobel laureate Ebadi criticizes Iran’s government over lack of civilian shelters

Nobel laureate and human rights lawyer Shirin Ebadi sharply criticized Iran’s government on Friday for failing to build civilian shelters after 46 years of militarization and conflict.

Ebadi condemned the Islamic Republic for fostering hostility and war rhetoric that has brought devastation to the Iranian people and national infrastructure, yet neglected basic protective measures for civilians.

“How is it possible that a government pounding the drum of war for decades has not built even a single shelter or warning system for ordinary people?” she asked.

She highlighted the absence of modern alert systems capable of notifying residents via mobile phones and questioned official advice for people to seek refuge in mosques and metro stations—facilities often inaccessible or inadequate.

Ebadi accused Tehran of prioritizing protection of its leadership while sacrificing civilian lives, and condemned internet shutdowns that have cut off public communication during crises. “This government feeds on the blood of its people and uses their suffering as propaganda. It must be overthrown,” she said.