United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon says he is dismayed by the post-election violence in Iran.

In a statement, Ban Ki-moon said he is particularly concerned about the use of force against civilians.

“The Secretary-General has been following with growing concern the situation in the Islamic Republic of Iran and is dismayed by the post-election violence, particularly the use of force against civilians, which has led to the loss of life and injuries,” his statement said.

In an unusually blunt statement, he called on Iran to respect fundamental rights of people – such as freedom of expression and assembly – which Iran has ferociously targeted in the post-election period.

“He calls on the authorities to respect fundamental civil and political rights, especially the freedom of expression, freedom of assembly and freedom of information,” said a statement issued by his spokesman.

” The situation in Iran is of concern to the international community, and the Secretary-General calls on the Government and the opposition to resolve peacefully their differences through dialogue and legal means.

“He urges an immediate stop to the arrests, threats and use of force. The Secretary-General reiterates his hope that the democratic will of the people of Iran will be fully respected.”