Former Irish president Mary Robinson has condemned the recent military attacks on Iran by the United States and Israel, describing them as illegal and a breach of international law. Speaking at an International Women's Day rally in Belfast attended by more than 2,000 people, she said the suffering endured by women and civil society in Iran did not justify what she called an aggressive war that is causing further misery.

The military operation began on 28 February, prompting retaliatory strikes by Tehran across the region. Countries including Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Oman and Iraq have been affected, along with a Royal Air Force base in Cyprus.

An Iranian academic at Queen's University Belfast told the rally that while she opposed Iran's current regime, she did not support foreign attacks or externally imposed regime change. She said liberation could not come through violence and stressed solidarity with the people rather than the state.

Speakers and attendees also highlighted issues closer to home, including violence against women and economic abuse in Northern Ireland. Campaigners called for greater safety, independence and support for women, reflecting the event's theme of 'Strength in Solidarity'.