Background and Context
On June 23, the United States, under President Donald Trump’s orders, launched an attack against Iran’s key nuclear facilities. This action has drawn criticism from China and Russia, two significant global powers with historical ties to Iran.
China’s Response
The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, led by Wang Yi, stated that the US attack has damaged Washington’s credibility and warned that the situation “could spiral out of control.” China emphasized this concern during a United Nations Security Council meeting, as reported by its state-owned media outlet.
Russia’s Role
Iran’s supreme leader, Ali Khamenei, dispatched his foreign minister, Javad Zarif, to Moscow to seek further assistance from President Vladimir Putin following the US military actions against Iran. This move comes amidst fears in Russia that such actions could destabilize the Middle East, possibly leading to an endless cycle of conflict.
Key Concerns and Diplomatic Efforts
Legal Framework and Regime Change:
French President Emmanuel Macron asserted that there is no legal framework for the US attacks on Iran’s nuclear facilities. He emphasized that any regime change in Iran should result from the people’s will, not external military intervention.
Respect for International Law:
A United Nations investigative mission reported that some of Israel’s attacks against Iran might have violated international humanitarian law, citing civilian casualties and the death of three humanitarian workers in Tehran. The mission also mentioned damage to a child autism clinic and a hospital in Kermanshah.
Iran’s Perspective
Despite Russia’s historical alliance with Iran, Tehran seeks more robust support from Moscow against Israel and the United States. Iran has not been satisfied with Russia’s current level of assistance, according to Iranian sources interviewed by Reuters.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the international community’s response to the US attack on Iran? China and Russia have criticized the attacks, with China warning of potential escalation and Russia expressing concerns about Middle East destabilization.
- How have world leaders reacted to the legality of these attacks? French President Emmanuel Macron stated that there is no legal framework for the attacks and emphasized that regime change should stem from the people’s will, not foreign military intervention.
- Have there been any violations of international law during these attacks? A UN investigative mission reported that some Israeli attacks might have infringed international humanitarian law, citing civilian casualties and damage to humanitarian infrastructure in Iran.
