Araghchi Sounds Alarm on US-Led Force-Based Global Order: A Call for Change

In a significant address at the conference titled “International Law under Assault: Aggression and Defense,” Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi highlighted the pressing challenges facing international law today. This event, held at the Institute for Political and International Studies, attracted diplomats, scholars, and legal experts, all gathering to discuss the urgent issues surrounding global legal frameworks.

Araghchi expressed deep concern over the current state of international law, noting that it is enduring an “all-out assault” from revisionist powers. He remarked, “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 pointed out that these challenges are largely attributed to the actions of the United States and its allies, who, over recent years, have favored a Western-centric order under the guise of a “rules-based international order.” He argued that this approach undermines universally accepted legal principles.

In his speech, he elaborated on the implications of this so-called rules-based order, stating:

• Selective Application: The rules are often applied according to the transient interests of Western nations, primarily against international law.
• Hegemonic Ambitions: This framework serves as a tool for the hegemonic ambitions of the United States and its Western allies.
• Warnings Ignored: Numerous international figures and countries from the Global South have warned against the need to return to a universal and equitable international legal framework, but their concerns have largely gone unaddressed.

Araghchi further criticized the shift toward a “force-based international order” as the U.S. and its allies increasingly disregard discussions surrounding the rules-based order.

He cited the former U.S. President Donald Trump’s doctrine of “peace through strength,” which he described as a cover for a more aggressive policy of “hegemony through force.” Araghchi emphasized that the West Asia region, known for its international connections, has become the primary victim of this troubling trend. Recent developments in this region exemplify the dangers posed by these shifts away from peace and international law.

Highlighting the actions of the Israeli regime, Araghchi stated:

• Geopolitical Ambitions: Israel, as an agent of U.S. interests, is pursuing dangerous geopolitical ambitions that violate fundamental principles of international law.
• Crimes Against Humanity: The regime has been emboldened by support from Washington and European allies, committing heinous acts, including massacres and ethnic cleansing.
• Military Aggression: Over the past two years, Israel has attacked seven countries and expanded its territorial ambitions in Lebanon and Syria.

Araghchi recounted a specific incident, stating that on June 13, the Israeli regime launched a sudden strike on Iran, which coincided with the timing of nuclear negotiations. He emphasized that this aggression not only violated international law but also threatened the non-proliferation regime.

He asserted, “The Zionist regime’s aggression against Iranian territory… constitutes a full-scale assault on the non-proliferation and safeguards regime.” Araghchi further noted that Iran exercised its legitimate right to self-defense in response to this unlawful aggression and effectively demonstrated its resolve against such actions.

He reminded the audience of the swift transformation of the initial message of “unconditional surrender” to a call for “unconditional ceasefire” within a mere nine days, dispelling misconceptions about Iran’s capabilities and determination.

As one of the founding members of the United Nations, Iran has consistently aligned its actions with international law. Araghchi stressed that Iran’s nuclear program is grounded in recognized rights under Article 4 of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). He stated:

• Inalienable Rights: The development of nuclear technology for peaceful purposes, including enrichment, is an inalienable right that Iran has never relinquished.
• Compliance with IAEA: Iran has adhered to comprehensive IAEA verification regimes and fulfilled its technical obligations.
• JCPOA Commitment: Following the 2015 nuclear agreement, Iran complied with its commitments as confirmed by multiple IAEA reports.

Araghchi reiterated that it was the United States that unilaterally withdrew from the JCPOA without justification, altering the current landscape of international relations. He argued that had the U.S. maintained its commitments, the situation would be markedly different today.

In conclusion, Araghchi emphasized that Iran’s response to aggression was carried out in full accordance with Article 51 of the United Nations Charter, which recognizes the inherent right to self-defense. He stated:

• Compliance with International Law: Iran’s defensive operations complied with principles of necessity, proportionality, and the distinction between military and non-military targets.
• Humanitarian Norms: At no point did Iran target civilians or residential areas, contrasting sharply with the actions of the Israeli regime.

Araghchi’s remarks reflect a deep commitment to international law and highlight the ongoing struggles faced by nations striving for justice and peace in a tumultuous global landscape.