Captain Osama Shakman

Even though I strongly disagree with the Iranian government—because of its oppressive actions at home and its harmful role in the region—that does not make it acceptable for Israel or the United States to carry out military attacks against Iran. These actions clearly violate international law and put global peace and security at risk.

According to the United Nations Charter, Article 2, Paragraph 4, no country is allowed to use force against the land or political independence of another country. When Israel or the U.S. strike targets inside Iran, either by air or through secret operations, they are breaking this rule and disrespecting Iran’s sovereignty.

These attacks were not approved by the United Nations Security Council, which is the only international body with the legal power to allow such actions—unless there is an immediate, proven threat that requires self-defense. In this case, there was no such threat from Iran to justify military action.

When the world accepts these attacks without speaking out, it sets a dangerous example. It tells other countries that they too can attack their neighbors just by claiming they feel "threatened." This weakens the international laws that were created after World War II to prevent wars and protect peace.

We must separate our disapproval of Iran’s government from our support for the rights of the Iranian people—including their right to safety, sovereignty, and protection from foreign attacks. War does not only hurt governments. It brings suffering to ordinary people and often helps dictators stay in power by blaming outside enemies.

If there are real concerns about Iran’s nuclear program or regional activities, the best way to deal with them is through diplomacy—by talking, applying international pressure, using fair sanctions, and working together. Military attacks usually make things worse and lead to more violence and instability.

Rejecting the Iranian government’s actions does not mean supporting attacks on Iran. If we want a fair and peaceful world, we must defend international law for all countries, not just the ones we agree with.

True justice and peace come from respecting the law equally—without double standards, and without using violence as the first option.