Israel Strikes Iran Nuclear Sites, International Law Scholars Warn of Global Legal Risks

Recent military strikes by the United States and Israel targeting Iran's nuclear facilities have drawn widespread international condemnation, with groups such as the Non-Aligned Movement, Organization of Islamic Cooperation, and Shanghai Cooperation Organization denouncing the attacks as violations of international law and threats to civilian safety. Despite claims from President Donald Trump and U.S. officials that the strikes obliterated Iran's nuclear sites, intelligence assessments from Israel, France, and U.S. defense agencies suggest significant but not total damage, with Iran potentially retaining the capability to recover nuclear materials and continue its program. French intelligence highlighted uncertainties about the whereabouts of Iran's uranium stockpiles, exacerbated by Iran's recent expulsion of UN nuclear inspectors, which complicates verification efforts. Iran has responded by warning that its future cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency depends on the agency's impartiality, accusing the IAEA of double standards in its treatment of Iran's nuclear dossier. Meanwhile, the UK Intelligence and Security Committee classified Iran as a top national security threat, underscoring the global concern over Tehran's nuclear ambitions. These developments reflect ongoing tensions and diplomatic challenges surrounding Iran's nuclear program and regional stability.