For international lawyer Manfred Nowak, the recent acts of war between Iran and Israel are legally problematic. He calls for “extreme restraint” and refers to possible UN resolutions: “Any form of military force is prohibited!”
The question of the legitimacy of an attack is “not a simple one,” Nowak said. The alleged Israeli attack on the Iranian embassy complex in Syria was “a clear violation of diplomatic immunity,” “even if secret service agents were present.”
In assessing whether this creates the right to self-defense, Nowak was “very cautious.” The former United Nations Special Rapporteur on torture referred to the UN Security Council. This was called on Sunday at the request of Israel. There has been no condemnation of the Iranian attack so far.
“War – and even the threat of it – is forbidden!”
Nowak referred to the ability of permanent council members China, France, Russia, Britain and the US to block decisions with a veto. That is why convictions are rare in practice. Official declarations of war have also become rare “because war – and the threat of it – is forbidden.”
“Aid is not illegal”
On the other hand, arms supplies from third countries are a legitimate means. The same applies to defensive measures such as firing missiles, but these can only be taken at the express invitation of another country: “Aid is not illegal. Nevertheless, utmost restraint must be exercised.”
Austria has “no option”
Nowak justified the security guarantees for Israel from Austria and Germany with “special historical responsibility.” Nevertheless, Israeli policies can be criticized; Germany has done this time and time again. The lawyer sees “no possibility” for Austria to intervene militarily in the conflict because of its neutrality.
Rights violations on both sides
International law expert Ralph Janik has identified rights violations on both sides. The alleged Israeli attack was not okay “because Iran and Syria were not engaged in an ongoing armed conflict with Israel.” The ban on violence was violated.
Janik: “Yet Iran has not respected the right to self-defense and the criteria that apply to it: self-defense serves to repel an ongoing attack and prevent further attacks. Not for ‘retribution’.” The same now applies to any “possible response from Israel.”
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
