Original Source
US Experts: 'Iran Attack Violates UN Charter' Statement Released
Israel's Attack on Iran Deemed a Violation of International Law
On the 2nd, over 100 US international law experts issued a statement asserting that the US-Israel attack on Iran clearly violates the UN Charter and could amount to a war crime. They highlighted international legal issues in both the initiation of combat and subsequent military operations, urging the Trump administration to adhere to international law. The statement specifically criticized the preemptive strike on February 28, noting the absence of UN Security Council approval and no evidence of an imminent threat from Iran, thus violating the UN Charter's prohibition on the use of force.
Civilian Target Attacks and Potential War Crimes
According to the statement, oil and gas facilities, as well as desalination plants, were attacked. Schools, medical facilities, and residential areas were destroyed, resulting in numerous casualties. In Minab, southern Iran, over 160 people died in an elementary school due to what is believed to be an accidental bombing by US forces. Experts stressed that such attacks likely violate international humanitarian law and could be considered war crimes if the perpetrators were aware of the risks involved.
Concerns Over Trump Administration's Disregard for International Law
The experts also expressed concern over statements made by senior officials in the Trump administration. They condemned Secretary of Defense Hegseth's March 13 remark, 'No mercy or compassion for enemies,' as contrary to international law. Furthermore, they noted that the National Defense Strategy (NDS), published in January, lacks references to civilian protection or international law, suggesting a disregard for legal constraints.
*Source: 日本経済新聞 (2026-04-04)*
