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Iran has a longstanding reputation for severe human rights abuses, including the persecution of individuals for dancing, social media activities, and women violating the country’s strict dress code.

 "There’s no secret that Iran violates human rights. It’s a matter of its practice to rule according to its interpretation of religious law, and that leaves little room for what we understand as civil rights or human rights in the western democratic context," Filitti explained.

He also highlighted the Biden administration’s approach to Tehran, suggesting it has focused on appeasement in nuclear deal negotiations and the release of funds that Iran has allegedly used for terrorism and domestic oppression. 

"It's really troubling that now we're seeing, effectively, a continuation of that. Both in offering condolences for the loss of Raisi and most likely, continuing to work with the next regime on the same failed strategy of appeasement," Filitti stated.

State Explains Moment of Silence

Lithuania’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Gabrielius Landsbergis also expressed disapproval of the condolences, citing Iran’s military support to Russia. 

"I don't feel comfortable sending condolences while Iran is sending drones that are used against civilians in Ukraine," he stated on social media.

The United Nations Security Council also honored Raisi on Monday with a moment of silence, following a request from Russia, China, and Algeria, according to Iran’s Permanent Mission to the U.N.

During a press briefing, Matthew Miller was questioned about the U.S.'s participation in the moment of silence. 

"We have been quite clear that Ebrahim Raisi was a brutal participant in the repression of the Iranian people for nearly four decades. He was involved in numerous horrific human rights abuses, including the extrajudicial killing of thousands of political prisoners in 1988. That said, we regret any loss of life. We don't want to see anyone die in a helicopter crash. But that doesn't change the reality of his record, both as a judge and as the president of Iran," Miller explained.

The Iranian government expressed gratitude for the UNSC's condolences. U.S. Senate Chaplain Barry Black also acknowledged Raisi's death during his invocation, praying for the Iranian people who mourn the loss of their president.