US, Israel and Iran violated international law, Swiss defense minister says

Swiss Defense Minister Martin Pfister said the United States, Israel and Iran had all violated international law in the conflict, arguing that each had breached the prohibition on the use of force.

“The Federal Council is of the opinion that the attack on Iran constitutes a violation of international law,” Pfister said in an interview published on Sunday, referring to the Swiss cabinet.

“In our view it constitutes a violation on the prohibition of violence,” he added.

Pfister made clear he was referring not only to the attack on Iran but to all sides that had failed to comply with that prohibition, including Washington, Israel and Tehran.

“The Americans and Israel have attacked Iran from the air. In doing so, they, like Iran, violated international law,” he said.

He called on all parties to halt the fighting to protect civilians.

His comments add to broader European concern over the legal basis for the war. German Vice Chancellor Lars Klingbeil said he had “serious doubts that this war is legitimate under international law” and rejected any potential German participation.

“I say clearly: this is not our war. We will not participate in this war,” Klingbeil said.

Spain has also denounced the US and Israeli bombings as reckless and illegal.