New travel restrictions set for Iran and Africa in coming weeks

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Iran Conflict: Human Toll Continues to Rise

A recent escalation in the conflict between Israel and Iran has resulted in significant loss of life, with over 1,500 people killed in a matter of weeks. In Tehran on March 7, mourners gathered around the coffin of Zainab Sahebi, a two-year-old girl who was killed in an Israeli air strike. The funeral was one of many held for victims of the conflict.

On March 3, thousands gathered in Minab, Hormozgan province, to pay their respects to at least 175 students and staff from the Shajareh Tayyebeh girls’ primary school, which was destroyed during the opening day of the bombing campaign. The incident is considered one of the deadliest in the conflict.

The violence has a long history, with similar incidents occurring in Gaza, Lebanon, and other regions. Civilians have borne the brunt of the conflict, while senior military officials, including Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, have also been killed.

Africa is closely watching the situation due to its economic ties to the region. The instability in the Gulf has led to sharp fuel price increases across the continent, affecting transport, electricity generation, and food supply chains. This has resulted in rising inflation and higher food prices.

The international community’s response to the conflict raises questions about the use of force between states. Article 2(4) of the United Nations Charter prohibits states from using military force against another state’s territorial integrity or political independence without UN Security Council authorisation or in self-defence. The situation in Iran does not appear to meet these criteria.

Historical examples, such as Libya and Afghanistan, demonstrate how Western military campaigns can expand beyond their stated purpose, leading to destabilization and long-term consequences. Africa has seen the impact of similar conflicts in the past, including the 2011 Libyan uprising and the ongoing instability in Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso.

The situation in Iran serves as a reminder of the importance of adhering to international law and respecting the sovereignty of nations.

Source: Al Jazeera