Statement on the Prohibition of the Threat or Use of Force and the Safeguarding of World Peace

The World Embassy Desk expresses profound concern regarding the ongoing escalation between the United States and the Islamic Republic of Iran. Repeated threats of unilateral military action by the United States to compel a political agreement with Iran stand in stark violation of the Charter of the United Nations and the foundational norms of international law that prohibit the threat or use of force in interstate relations. Article 2(4) of the UN Charter clearly mandates that states must settle disputes by peaceful means and refrain from coercive threats of military action. Actions or rhetoric that undermine these principles risk destabilising global peace and eroding the rules-based international order that safeguards all nations.

We also note with deep concern a number of other recent United States actions that raise serious legal and ethical questions under both international and domestic law. The January military operation in Venezuela and subsequent actions, including attacks on vessels alleged to be involved in narcotics trafficking, have been widely criticised by legal experts and international observers as inconsistent with international law.

Finally, the continued posture of military coercion and strategic pressure by the United States constitutes a serious threat to the security and stability of the Taiwan. Policies that emphasise threatened force over sustained diplomatic engagement risk exacerbating tensions in East Asia and raise the prospect of confrontation that could have far-reaching consequences for peace and prosperity across the region.

The World Embassy Desk calls upon all parties to recommit to diplomacy, respect for sovereignty, and adherence to international legal obligations. We urge the United States and the Islamic Republic of Iran, as well as all members of the international community, to continue pursue a negotiated settlement of disputes.