The Digester
war

US strikes on Iran may constitute war crimes, say international law experts

Over 100 international law experts in the US say American strikes on Iran and senior officials' rhetoric raise serious concerns about violations of international humanitarian and human rights law after attacks hit civilian sites.

Apr 3rd 2026 · Iran

Insights

  • More than 100 US international law scholars signed a public letter saying US strikes on Iran may amount to war crimes.
  • The letter cites strikes that hit schools, health facilities, and homes, including a February 28 strike on an Iranian girls school that the Iranian Red Crescent says killed 175.
  • Experts pointed to comments by senior US officials, including a March remark by President Trump that strikes might be carried out "just for fun" and threats to target Iran's energy infrastructure.
  • The letter, published on Just Security, warns the conduct of US forces and official statements raise serious concerns about violations of international humanitarian and human rights law.
  • The conflict began on February 28 with US and Israeli attacks on Iran and has led to thousands of deaths and millions displaced amid escalating threats and strikes.

Sources