The recent strikes against Iran, resulting in the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, have ignited a global debate not just about the legality of the action, but about the broader question of international order and enforcement. While condemnation of the strikes – potentially unlawful under international law – has been swift, the underlying issue remains: who, if anyone, is responsible for holding rogue actors accountable on the world stage?
For decades, Iran has been accused of destabilizing the Middle East through its support of proxy groups like Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis, groups linked to violence and regional conflict. Recent accusations as well include alleged involvement in attacks on Western targets, such as the firebombing of a Melbourne synagogue and a Sydney cafe approximately 18 months ago, though these claims remain under investigation. The escalating tensions culminated in the recent US-Israeli action, a move that many see as a direct response to Hamas’s October 7th attack on Israel.
The Failure of Iran’s “Axis of Resistance”
Iran’s long-term strategy, often referred to as the “axis of resistance,” aimed to create a network of regional allies capable of overwhelming Israel and deterring US intervention. However, this network appears to have faltered. Recent analysis suggests that the October 7th attacks, while not directly orchestrated by Iran, inadvertently allowed Israel to systematically degrade Tehran’s allies. This has left Iran more isolated and vulnerable than it has been in decades.
The war in Gaza, triggered by Hamas’s attack that killed 1,200 people and took 251 hostages, served as the catalyst for this shift. Israel’s subsequent military response in Gaza has resulted in over 72,000 Palestinian deaths, according to the Health Ministry in Gaza, though it’s important to note that this figure does not distinguish between militants and civilians. The damage to Iran’s power has radiated outwards from this conflict, weakening its influence across the region.
The UN’s Limitations and the Role of Global Powers
The legality of the airstrikes has become a central point of contention. While many acknowledge the potential violation of international law, the reality is that the UN Security Council is unlikely to authorize such actions. For years, the Council has been largely limited to passing resolutions and debating the actions of actors like Khamenei, without effective enforcement mechanisms. This highlights a fundamental truth: the enforcement of international rules often falls to global powers, not the UN itself.
This reality, while unsettling to those who prioritize a rules-based international order, is a long-standing feature of global politics. Global powers inherently possess the capacity to act unilaterally, choosing which rules to follow and which to disregard. The existence of such powers, despite their imperfections, is arguably necessary to maintain any semblance of order. The question, then, isn’t whether these powers should act outside the rules, but which power we prefer to have wielding that authority.
The Choice: Russia, China, or the US?
The uncomfortable truth is that the world must choose between potential enforcers: Russia, China, or the United States. While the US action may be viewed as a breach of international norms, many argue that, despite its flaws, it remains preferable to a world policed by Russia or China. The current situation, while fraught with risk, could potentially lead to a more stable outcome, though the possibility of escalation, civil war within Iran, and a refugee crisis cannot be dismissed. Israel’s decision to target Khamenei was reportedly made shortly after the October 7th attacks, demonstrating a clear intent to respond decisively.
the recent events serve as a stark reminder that the enforcement of international norms is often a messy and imperfect process. While the airstrikes may be unlawful, dismissing Khamenei as a victim ignores the intentional evil of his regime. The situation remains volatile, and the coming months will be critical in determining the long-term consequences of these actions.
As the situation continues to unfold, it is crucial to remain informed and engaged. Share your thoughts and perspectives in the comments below.
