US-Israel Strikes on Iran: Legal Experts Warn of War Crimes

More than 100 U.S.-based international law experts warn that military strikes by the U.S. and Israel on Iran could amount to war crimes. These legal experts, including professors and former military advisers, express deep concern in a letter about the legality of the February 28 attacks. They argue the strikes violate the United Nations Charter and lack justification, as there is no evidence that Iran posed an imminent threat. The letter highlights alarming civilian casualties, with over 1,400 people killed in the initial weeks of the campaign, including more than 200 children. A particularly tragic strike on a primary school in Minab killed at least 175 people, raising questions about the use of outdated intelligence. Experts criticize statements from U.S. officials that could violate international humanitarian law, including Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's declaration of "no quarter." They also note a troubling trend of weakening institutional safeguards within the military that could lead to further violations. The bottom line is that these legal concerns could have serious implications for international peace and security, affecting everyone.