Iran FM Claims Lifted UNSC Resolutions Have No Legal Ground: A Bold Stance on International Law
In a recent address at the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Foreign Ministers’ Meeting held in Uganda, Iran’s top diplomat articulated strong objections to claims made by the United States and three European nations—namely the United Kingdom, France, and Germany—regarding the reinstatement of UN Security Council resolutions lifted in 2015 under the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). These claims, he argued, lack validity and should be disregarded by other nations.
During his speech, Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif emphasized the necessity of adhering to the core principles of the Non-Aligned Movement, which include:
- Respect for the right of nations to self-determination
- Upholding the United Nations Charter
- Prohibition of the use of force
- Condemnation of unilateral coercive measures
Zarif called for enhanced solidarity among developing countries to tackle the increasing challenges posed by unilateralism and the hegemonic ambitions of certain global powers. He specifically referenced the aggressive actions taken by the Israeli regime and the United States against Iran in June, labeling them as blatant violations of international law and acts of defiance that threaten global peace and stability.
Moreover, Zarif criticized the three European countries for their alleged misuse of the JCPOA dispute resolution mechanism and their attempts to reinstate lifted resolutions via the UN Security Council. He noted that these efforts encountered opposition from several Security Council members, including two permanent members. He described this move as illegal and devoid of any legitimate legal standing.
Highlighting the impending expiration date of UN Security Council Resolution 2231 on October 18, 2025, Zarif urged NAM member states to resist any misuse of international institutions, particularly the Security Council, for coercive or pressuring purposes against developing nations. He reiterated that, considering the lack of jurisdiction of the three European countries, their bad faith, and the explicit opposition from two permanent members, the claims by the U.S. and its European allies regarding the reinstatement of 2015 resolutions under the JCPOA are entirely void and should not be recognized as having any legal effect by any state.
On the topic of Palestine, Zarif underscored it as a pivotal international issue, asserting that a genuine resolution is unattainable without addressing its root cause: the occupation and the denial of fundamental rights to the Palestinian people. He affirmed the legitimate right of the Palestinian population to pursue self-determination, emphasizing the responsibility of all governments to support this struggle.
Zarif reiterated Iran’s commitment to supporting all efforts aimed at halting the genocide of Palestinians, removing occupiers from Gaza, ensuring the unhindered delivery of humanitarian aid, and rebuilding Gaza. He stressed the urgent need to end the impunity enjoyed by the Israeli regime and to hold accountable those responsible for its crimes.
In conclusion, Zarif highlighted the importance of solidarity among NAM member countries facing unilateral and coercive actions orchestrated by the United States, citing examples such as Venezuela, Cuba, Nicaragua, Belarus, and Iran. He called on the international community to remain vigilant against these pressures and to foster a united front in defense of self-determination and justice.
As the geopolitical landscape continues to evolve, Iran’s unwavering stance at the NAM Foreign Ministers’ Meeting serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggles faced by developing nations in the face of unilateral pressures and historical injustices.
