UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Tom Fletcher sharply criticizes US President Donald Trump for treating the Iran conflict like a “game show,” following strikes on civilian targets and threats to devastate the country’s infrastructure.
Accusations of War Crimes
Fletcher condemns the bombing of bridges, hospitals, schools, and energy sources as clear violations of international law. “War is not a game show; peace making is not a real estate deal; the world is not a casino,” he states. “You don’t hit civilian infrastructure. That includes hospitals. You don’t hit schools, energy sources, bridges. That is a war crime.”
He highlights a “gradual and then sudden deterioration in the protection of civilians,” declaring, “This stuff is not negotiable.” UN aid workers manage the unintended consequences of what Fletcher calls a “reckless conflict,” marked by impunity over humanity.
Trump’s Escalation Threats
Trump posts on Truth Social, warning of further destruction: “Our Military, the greatest and most powerful (by far!) anywhere in the World, hasn’t even started destroying what’s left in Iran. Bridges next, then Electric Power Plants! New Regime leadership knows what has to be done, and has to be done, FAST!”
These threats aim to force Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, closed amid US and Israeli strikes, driving up global oil and gas prices.
Legal Experts Raise Alarms
Over 100 international law experts, including former US officials and professors, express profound concern in an open letter. They argue US actions breach the UN Charter, prohibiting force except in self-defense or with Security Council approval.
The experts cite alarming rhetoric, such as threats to obliterate power plants, and a strike on a school in Minab on the war’s first day. Evidence points to a US attack, potentially a war crime if recklessness is confirmed. The Pentagon investigates the incident.
A White House spokesperson responds that Trump prioritizes American interests and regional stability over expert opinions.
UK Pushes Diplomacy
UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper warns of further sanctions if Iran keeps the Strait of Hormuz closed, accusing Tehran of holding the global economy hostage. After talks with over 40 nations, she states: “Iran’s closure of the Strait of Hormuz is a direct threat to global prosperity. They must not prevail.”
Partners demand immediate reopening and respect for freedom of navigation. Cooper emphasizes UK decisions serve national interests, avoiding offensive action due to escalation risks and economic impacts.
Trump criticizes the UK approach, mocking Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and dismissing British aircraft carriers as outdated. Cooper reaffirms Britain’s lead in diplomacy with allies like France, Germany, and Gulf states.
