Video: Iran accuses US of hypocrisy on international law, human rights
Abdullateef Fowewe
Iranian Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi has criticised the United States for selectively applying international law and human rights principles, describing the approach as undermining the foundations of the global order.
In remarks shared online, Araghchi could be heard saying, “If international law is disregarded whenever the interests of major powers dictate, one can no longer speak of the rule of law. If human rights are an inherent right for some nations and a conditional privilege for others, they can no longer be called universal.”
The comments come against the backdrop of a prolonged conflict between the United States and Iran that began in late February 2026 with joint US-Israeli strikes on Iranian targets.
The fighting has centered on issues including Iran’s nuclear program, freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, and broader regional security, with both sides conducting military operations and Iran restricting shipping at times.
In recent days, President Donald Trump has weighed further escalation, revealing that he faces a major decision on whether to “annihilate” the Iranian regime or pursue other options, while also expressing hope that the conflict may be nearing an end and claiming direct contacts with Tehran.
At the same time, the US State Department has approved visas for a scaled-down Iranian delegation, including President Masoud Pezeshkian and Araghchi, to attend the United Nations General Assembly high-level week in New York.
Araghchi has separately emphasised Iran’s readiness for diplomacy while insisting on the defense of its sovereignty, including in recent talks with Chinese officials.
