The Islamic Republic of Iran systematically targeted civilian populations during a military conflict from late February to early April 2026, as stated by Adv. Uri Morad, an international law attorney from the Jerusalem Institute of Justice (JIJ). Morad indicated that the Iran Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) directed attacks on densely populated areas as a deliberate military strategy, leading to violations of international humanitarian law. The recent JIJ report highlighted Iran’s approach of overwhelming Israel’s air defenses through the use of missiles and drones, with the expectation that a significant percentage would land in civilian areas. The report also detailed the use of cluster munitions, which indiscriminately scatter explosives over large areas, contributing to high civilian casualties. Morad emphasized the need for accountability and legal action against Iranian leaders for these actions, proposing potential pathways through the International Criminal Court and universal jurisdiction.
Why It Matters
The targeting of civilians and the use of cluster munitions raise serious concerns about compliance with international humanitarian law, which mandates the distinction between combatants and non-combatants during armed conflict. Cluster munitions have been widely criticized for their potential to cause indiscriminate harm, especially in populated areas. The ongoing tension in the region, particularly between Iran and Israel, is marked by previous conflicts and escalating military capabilities, which have drawn international scrutiny. Legal actions being considered against Iranian leadership could set precedents for accountability in warfare and reinforce the importance of adhering to international legal standards in military operations.
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