Statement protesting Israel's use of force against Iran and calling for an immediate halt to the attacks

　Since June 13, Israel has used large-scale force against Iran's nuclear-related facilities, missile bases, air defense systems, the residences of Revolutionary Guard officers, and state-run broadcasting facilities. These attacks have caused significant damage in Iran, including to non-combatants and civilian facilities. This use of force is in violation of the United Nations Charter, which states that "All Members shall refrain in their international relations from the threat or use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any state, or in any other manner inconsistent with the Purposes of the United Nations." (UN Charter, Article 2, Paragraph 4), which clearly violates the norm against the use of force.

　Citing the threat of Iran's nuclear program as the reason for the action, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said "It was an action to protect our nation, and we had no other choice." He claims that this use of force is an exercise of the right of self-defense. However, the UN Charter recognizes the exercise of the right of self-defense "if an armed attack occurs against a Member of the United Nations" (Article 51). Although Iran's nuclear development poses a threat to neighboring countries, which itself should be condemned, that does not mean that it constitutes an "armed attack”. Israel's exercise of its right to self-defense is clearly an abuse of its right to self-defense, and thus does not fall under a case in which the use of force is permitted under the UN Charter. Israel's use of force against Iran is an outrageous act in violation of the UN Charter.

　Nevertheless, on June 16, the G7 nations stated, "we affirm that Israel has a right to defend itself. We reiterate our support for the security of Israel.” and “Iran is the principal source of regional instability and terror." They condemn Iran for condoning Israel's use of force in violation of the UN Charter and for the damage it has caused. We cannot tolerate such a statement that ignores the UN Charter and portrays the perpetrators and victims in reverse. The statement also states, "We have been consistently clear that Iran can never have a nuclear weapon." Iran is a state party to the NPT, and has been responsive to negotiations. Ignoring this history, attacking nuclear facilities with air strikes is an extremely dangerous act that could lead to radioactive contamination, and may violate customary international humanitarian law. Israel is an outlaw to carry out such an act, and the G7 is irresponsible for not condemning it.

　The UN Charter states that "All members shall settle their international disputes by peaceful means." (Article 2, Paragraph 3). International peace and security are matters that can be achieved through dialogue and diplomatic efforts, and the use of force is counterproductive. As a legal organization that seeks the abolition of nuclear weapons and support for Hibakusha from the standpoint that "humanity and nuclear weapons cannot coexist," the Association strongly condemns the use of force by Israel against Iran and calls for an immediate halt to the attack.

June 20, 2025
Kenichi Okubo
President, Japan Association of Lawyers Against Nuclear Weapons