Global Legal Framework at Risk: FM Araghchi Sounds Alarm on International Law Crisis

International Law Under Threat: The remarks made by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi at a significant conference highlight the growing concerns regarding the state of international law. The conference, titled “International Law under Assault, Aggression and Defense,” took place on Sunday at the Institute for Political and International Studies, which is affiliated with Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. With a rich assembly of diplomats, scholars, and legal experts in attendance, the discourse around international law’s vulnerabilities was both timely and critical.

During his address, Araghchi pointed out that despite the United Nations celebrating its 80th anniversary, the commitment to universal legal principles appears to be weakening. He characterized this period as one where international law is facing an “all-out assault” from revisionist powers.

“Today, we stand before a truth that can no longer be ignored or left unspoken: international law is under attack. The world faces profound challenges, alarming trends, and unprecedented strategic shifts at multiple levels,” he asserted, emphasizing the urgent need for a collective reevaluation of the current global legal framework.

Araghchi further articulated that the existing challenges stem from a series of anti-international-law movements, particularly those spearheaded by the United States and its allies. He criticized these entities for promoting a Western-centric order under the guise of a “rules-based international order,” which he argued deviates from a genuine “law-based international order.”

He stated, “In practice, the so-called rules-based order has been interpreted and applied according to the transient, seasonal intentions, goals, programs, and interests of Western countries, primarily against international law. This approach has, unfortunately, been used selectively, serving as a tool for the hegemonic ambitions of the United States and the West.”

Araghchi also lamented that numerous warnings from prominent international figures and nations—especially those from the Global South—regarding the need to revert to an international law framework rooted in universality, equality, and the rejection of coercion and discrimination, have largely gone unheeded. He noted, “As a result, today, even discussion of the rules-based order is diminishing, and we are witnessing efforts by the United States and some of its allies to construct a ‘force-based international order.’”

In addition, Araghchi reflected on the implications of former President Donald Trump’s entry into the White House under the doctrine of “peace through strength.” He asserted that it soon became evident that this doctrine was merely a façade for a new operational framework—“hegemony through force.”

As the discussion continued, several key points were raised regarding the current state of international law and its challenges:

• The Assault on International Law: A growing number of nations are questioning the validity and applicability of international law in light of aggressive unilateral actions by powerful states.
• The Need for a Universal Approach: There is a call for a return to international law principles that prioritize universality, equality, and the rejection of coercion.
• Impacts of Unilateralism: The unilateral measures taken by major powers often erode the foundations of international law and foster global instability.
• The Role of Global South: Countries from the Global South are increasingly vocal about their concerns, advocating for a more inclusive and equitable approach to international law.
• Future of International Order: The shift towards a force-based international order raises concerns about the potential for increased conflict and the erosion of diplomatic dialogue.

Araghchi’s statements come at a critical juncture, as the world grapples with numerous geopolitical tensions and the implications of shifting power dynamics. As the international community navigates these challenges, the importance of a robust and equitable legal framework cannot be overstated.

This is a developing story, and further updates will be provided as new information becomes available. The ongoing dialogue around international law remains essential in promoting global peace and stability.

MNA/