Norwegian and Swedish leaders question the international law basis for recent US-Israeli military actions against Iran, warning of dangerous precedents.
ISTANBUL: Scandinavian leaders have publicly questioned the legality of recent United States and Israeli military strikes against Iran.
Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store stated on Monday that the attacks launched by the US and Israel are not in line with international law, according to a report by Anadolu Ajansi.
Store also denounced Iran’s retaliatory strikes against neighbouring countries, telling broadcaster NRK that he strongly condemns countries being targeted and civilians being affected.
He described the Middle East situation as “very serious,” noting a big war is going on with people being killed in many countries, especially in Iran which has been attacked.
The Prime Minister added that Norway does not fear military involvement as it does not have bases in the region.
Swedish Foreign Minister Maria Malmer Stenergard similarly expressed doubts over compliance with international legal principles.
Stenergard told Radio Sweden it is difficult to see that this use of force has support in international law when asked about the US-Israel joint operation.
She stressed the need to stand up for the rules and norms governing state conduct, highlighting a clear conflict of objectives.
The Foreign Minister warned that a departure from international law risks other countries claiming new rights for themselves in dangerous ways.
A joint US-Israeli military campaign launched on Saturday has already killed several senior Iranian officials, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
Tehran has carried out retaliatory drone and missile strikes targeting Israel and US assets in Gulf countries.
The US and Israel have indicated the attacks will continue until objectives including regime change in the Islamic Republic are met.
