AsiaNet-Pakistan Premier Editorial Content and Press Release Distribution Service
Geneva, United Nations experts today called for an immediate cessation of retaliatory military actions between Israel and Iran, citing violations of the right to life and international law.
According to Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, the experts highlighted the serious consequences of the recent military engagements. On April 1, 2024, Israel launched an attack on an Iranian consulate in Syria, resulting in the deaths of two Iranian generals and several others. The attack, which also injured two Syrian police officers, was not deemed a lawful exercise of self-defense by Israel, as no direct threat or ongoing armed attack against it by Iran was evidenced.
The response from Iran included firing over 300 missiles and drones at Israel on April 13, severely injuring a child and causing damage to a military facility. This act was also criticized by the UN experts as an illegal use of force, noting that retaliation is not justified under international law if the original attack has concluded.
The experts elaborated that both Israel’s initial strike and Iran’s subsequent response represent dangerous escalations in a volatile region and may constitute international crimes of aggression. They expressed concern over the potential for these actions to lead to further destabilization and violence, urging both nations to respect their international obligations and seek peaceful resolutions.
The experts also called on the UN Security Council to take effective action in response to these violations to prevent further deterioration of regional stability and ensure accountability for any breaches of international law.