Emeritus Professor Martti Koskenniemi from the University of Helsinki has declared the ongoing military actions by the United States and Israel against Iran as illegal, emphasizing that international law prohibits the use of armed force against another state except in self-defense or with authorization from the UN Security Council. He argues that neither of these exceptions justifies the current actions, thus labeling the attacks unlawful. Koskenniemi's statements reflect a broader legal context set by the UN Charter, which establishes the legal framework for state interactions in the international community.

As the conflict marks its fourth day, it has escalated, with various parties accusing each other of targeting civilian areas. This is a critical violation of the rules of armed conflict, which stipulate that only military personnel may use force against other military targets. The accusations come from all sides, with the U.S., Israel, and Iran blaming each other for strikes that have impacted civilians, thus intensifying the humanitarian stakes in this emerging conflict.

The situation highlights the significant implications for international relations and humanitarian law. As attacks continue, the legitimacy of these military operations comes under scrutiny, raising concerns about the impact on civilian lives and the long-term consequences for regional stability. The legal commentary by Koskenniemi serves as a reminder of the importance of adhering to international laws designed to protect human rights and maintain peace amid escalating military conflicts.