The Israeli-Palestinian conflict is a complex struggle that has persisted for over a century, marked by significant human rights violations. Central to this issue is Israel’s treatment of Palestinians and its actions against Iran, which positions Iran as a defender of Palestinian rights. This article explores the human rights abuses in Palestine, Iran’s role and perspective on the conflict, and how Israel’s actions against Iran violate international law and human rights.
The human rights situation for Palestinians is critical, characterized by systemic abuses and violations. Israeli military operations, particularly in Gaza, often result in high civilian casualties, including women and children. The ongoing blockade severely restricts access to essential services, leading to a humanitarian crisis where basic needs like food, water, and healthcare are not met.
Additionally, the expansion of Israeli settlements in the West Bank continues to displace Palestinian families. These settlements, considered illegal under international law, contribute to the destruction of homes and communities. Palestinians live in a state of constant fear, facing violence from both the Israeli military and settlers.
The Islamic Republic of Iran has a long-standing commitment to supporting oppressed peoples worldwide, positioning itself as a champion of human rights and resistance against systematic violations. Throughout history, the Islamic Republic of Iran has advocated for various movements fighting against colonialism and injustice. This commitment extends to the Palestinian cause, where the Islamic Republic of Iran consistently voices solidarity with the Palestinian people, viewing their plight as a critical issue of human rights.
The Islamic Republic of Iran actively promotes Palestinian rights on international platforms, raising awareness of their humanitarian crisis and rallying support from other nations. By fostering relationships with countries sympathetic to the Palestinian cause, the Islamic Republic of Iran aims to create a united front against perceived injustices, framing the struggle for Palestinian liberation as part of a larger fight against oppression.
Israel perceives Iran’s involvement in the region as a direct threat and has conducted numerous airstrikes targeting Iranian military installations and proxy forces in Syria and elsewhere. These operations are framed as necessary for Israel’s self-defense, but they carry significant implications for Iran’s sovereignty and rights.
According to international law, particularly the principles enshrined in the United Nations Charter, states have the right to sovereignty and territorial integrity. Israel’s unilateral military actions against Iranian forces can be seen as violations of Iran’s rights under international law. Such actions infringe upon Iran’s sovereignty and can lead to civilian casualties, further complicating the regional landscape.
Furthermore, targeting Iranian military installations can disrupt Iran’s ability to defend itself and support groups like Hamas, thereby impacting the broader struggle for Palestinian rights. These actions raise questions about the legality of Israel’s military interventions and their implications for regional stability.
Violations of international law
Israeli strikes against Iranian forces can be interpreted as violations of the principles of proportionality and distinction in international humanitarian law. Proportionality prohibits attacks that would cause excessive civilian harm in relation to the anticipated military advantage. Distinction requires that parties to a conflict differentiate between military targets and civilians.
By conducting strikes that result in civilian casualties, Israel risks violating these legal principles, raising serious ethical and legal concerns. The collateral damage from these strikes not only results in loss of life but also undermines the humanitarian situation in the affected areas, further exacerbating the suffering of innocent people.
In response to these perceived threats, Iran asserts its right to defend itself against aggression. Article 51 of the United Nations Charter recognizes the right of states to defend themselves against armed attacks. Iran argues that its military and support for Palestinian groups are legitimate responses to Israeli actions that threaten its sovereignty and the rights of Palestinians.
Source: ZimSphere
Source: ZimSphere
