Iranian Official Abbas Araghchi Says International Law Is 'Dead in Practice' Amid Regional War

Iranian official Abbas Araghchi stated that international law is "dead in practice" as a regional war intensifies, accusing Western countries of double standards in their handling of conflicts in Gaza, Ukraine and attacks on Iran by the United States and Israel.

In a post on X, Araghchi highlighted Western silence over the US and Israeli attacks on Iran, which he said exposed selective respect for international law and human rights. He praised German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier for describing the Iran war as a breach of international law in what Araghchi called a rare and direct criticism of Washington's policy.

Araghchi urged those who believe in the rule of law not to remain silent, framing the conflict as an unlawful assault on Iran's sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The comments come amid a widening war involving Iran, the United States and Israel, marked by heavy casualties, damage to infrastructure and growing pressure on regional security and energy routes. Iran's remarks reflect a diplomatic strategy portraying itself as a victim of international double standards while seeking support from governments critical of the military campaign against it.

Western governments remain divided over the legality and consequences of the conflict, amid concerns over its impact on shipping, oil prices and the wider Middle East.