Former UK Ambassador Murray: Israel Attacked Iran to Sabotage US Negotiations
Insights from Former UK Ambassador Craig Murray on Israel's Actions Against Iran
Former British ambassador to Uzbekistan and staunch human rights advocate Craig Murray has issued a compelling statement condemning recent military activities. He characterizes Israel's attack on Iran as “a calculated act of sabotage aimed at undermining ongoing diplomatic negotiations and a blatant breach of international legal standards.”
Murray emphasizes the gravity of the situation, asserting, “Launching a strike amidst active peace talks constitutes an egregious betrayal. Such actions are not only illegal but also violate the principles outlined in the Geneva Convention’s Sixth Protocol. While targeting nuclear facilities is already a breach of international law, justifying these assaults does not mitigate their illegality.”
Critique of Israeli Political Strategies and International Law
He further accuses Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of exploiting military escalations and legal delays for domestic political gain, stating, “Netanyahu appears to be leveraging military aggression and postponements in judicial proceedings to maintain political stability, even if it means breaching international norms.”
Murray highlights that these aggressive actions are taking place against a backdrop of ongoing conflict in Gaza and frequent Israeli military operations targeting Lebanese, Syrian, and Iraqi territories, raising serious concerns about regional stability.
Recent Diplomatic Efforts and Obstacles in Iran Nuclear Negotiations
Iran and the United States have engaged in five rounds of indirect negotiations through Oman regarding Iran’s nuclear program, with the latest session held in Rome on May 23. Following this meeting, Iran’s Foreign Minister, Abbas Arakchi, expressed cautious optimism, stating that the proposed mechanisms from Oman could facilitate progress in future negotiations, potentially within one or two additional rounds. Nonetheless, Iran’s capacity for uranium enrichment remains a significant sticking point.
Escalation of Military Hostilities on June 13
On the night of June 13, Israel initiated a series of military strikes claiming to target Iran’s clandestine nuclear activities. The operation involved air strikes and sabotage, targeting key nuclear facilities, senior military leaders, prominent nuclear scientists, airbases, air defense systems, and missile launch sites.
Iran responded with a barrage of missile salvos and drone attacks aimed at Israeli military and industrial infrastructure. These retaliatory actions have led to escalating civilian casualties, with both sides experiencing significant losses.
Casualty Reports and International Reactions
- Israel reports having suffered over 20 fatalities and more than 600 injuries.
- According to Iran’s Ministry of Health, casualties have surpassed 220 deaths and include at least 1,800 wounded.
- Iran’s ambassador to Russia, Kazem Jalali, announced that approximately 300 civilians have lost their lives amidst the ongoing violence.
The conflict continues unabated as Israeli officials affirm their commitment to dismantle Iran’s nuclear program entirely, while Tehran threatens to retaliate against Israeli targets until military assaults cease. The escalation has raised profound concerns over regional stability and civilian safety.
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