International law experts allege violations in Iran war
International law experts allege violations in Iran war
Over 100 specialists in global legal frameworks have joined a public statement, highlighting “deep apprehension” over alleged significant breaches of international law by the US, Israel, and Iran during the Middle East conflict. They argue that the US-Israeli strike on Iran marked a clear violation of the United Nations Charter, which restricts the use of force to self-defense or actions authorized by the UN Security Council.
Alarming rhetoric and legal concerns
The letter criticizes the “dangerous language” employed by officials, including former US President Donald Trump’s declaration to “erase” Iran’s power plants. The White House countered by asserting that Trump’s actions were making the region more secure and dismissed the group as “so-called experts.” The signatories also challenged Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth’s claim that enemies should be “left without mercy,” noting that denying quarter in warfare is explicitly prohibited under international law. This rule is emphasized in the Department of Defense’s law of war manual, which outlines that such actions are particularly unacceptable.
“We are deeply worried that the actions and threats described here are inflicting significant damage on civilians… and that they endanger the integrity of fundamental legal principles safeguarding all nations’ populations.”
UN official’s critique of enforcement
Tom Fletcher, the United Nations’ head of humanitarian affairs, told BBC Radio 4’s Today programme that international law had been “abandoned” during the conflict. He acknowledged the rules as “clear and robust,” yet pointed to “lack of adherence” as the core issue. Fletcher characterized the war as “reckless,” underscoring the gap between legal standards and on-the-ground implementation.
Attack on Minab school raises questions
The experts’ statement also addresses the destruction of a primary school in Minab, Iran, on the conflict’s initial day. The incident reportedly killed 168 individuals, including 110 children. The US Department of Defense is investigating, with some evidence pointing to a possible US strike. One theory under review suggests the school, situated near an Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps site, was targeted due to outdated intelligence.
“The strike likely contravenes international humanitarian law, and if proof emerges that those involved acted carelessly, it could constitute a war crime.”
Publication in legal journal
The letter was released in Just Security, a digital publication affiliated with New York University School of Law. It underscores the gravity of the situation, linking the conflict to the erosion of legal norms and the potential for civilian harm. The experts’ call for accountability highlights ongoing tensions between military action and the protections enshrined in international law.
