International Law Experts Accuse US, Israel, and Iran of War Violations

Over 100 specialists in international law have endorsed a public statement expressing “deep apprehension” regarding alleged major breaches of global legal standards by the United States, Israel, and Iran in the ongoing Middle East conflict. The group argues that the U.S.-Israeli strike on Iran marked a direct violation of the United Nations Charter, which forbids military action beyond self-defense or without UN Security Council approval.

The experts emphasize “concerning statements” made by government officials, such as U.S. President Donald Trump’s vow to “eliminate” Iran’s power plants. In response, the White House asserted that Trump’s actions were essential for regional security, branding the critics as “so-called experts.” The letter also challenges Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth’s declaration that “no quarter” would be offered to enemies, noting that in international law, refusing to spare captives or wounded individuals is “particularly prohibited.” This principle is highlighted in the Department of Defense’s law of war manual.

“We are deeply worried that the actions and threats detailed here are inflicting substantial damage on civilians… and endangering the foundational principles that safeguard every nation’s populace,” the signatories stated.

Senior U.S. officials have been accused of showing “notable disregard” for international humanitarian law, which protects both civilians and combatants. The White House additionally criticized Iran, citing its role as a “state sponsor of terror” and its alleged attacks on Americans over 47 years. Trump claimed his efforts were “eliminating Iran’s immediate and lasting threats to the U.S. and our allies,” thereby ensuring regional stability.

Human Rights Activists News Agency, based in the U.S., reports that 1,606 civilians, including 244 children, have died in Iran since the war began. Israeli emergency services note 19 civilians were killed in missile attacks originating from Iran and Lebanon. Tom Fletcher, the UN humanitarian chief, addressed BBC Radio 4’s Today programme, stating that “international law had been set aside” during the conflict. He noted the rules are “firmly established” but emphasized the issue lies in “their application.”

The letter details the attack on a primary school in Minab, Iran, on the conflict’s first day, which reportedly killed 168 individuals, including 110 children. The U.S. Department of Defense is examining the incident, with some evidence pointing to a U.S. strike as the cause. One hypothesis under investigation suggests the school, located near an Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps facility, may have been targeted due to outdated intelligence. The experts argue the strike likely contravenes international humanitarian law and could be classified as a war crime if the responsible parties acted recklessly.

The letter, published in Just Security—an online journal affiliated with New York University School of Law—calls for greater adherence to legal norms amid the escalating tensions in the region.