Us/Israel Must Respect Geneva Convention In War With Iran-Adeyanju

Human rights lawyer and activist, Deji Adeyanju has urged the United States and Israel to uphold the principles of international humanitarian law, especially the Geneva Convention, in their ongoing military actions with Iran.

Adeyanju,who made the call in a statement issued to newsmen in Abuja, emphasized that even in times of armed conflict, there are legally binding rules designed to protect the innocent ones who are not directly participating in hostilities.

Adeyanju specifically called for the full safeguarding of children, hospitals, civilians, and other vulnerable populations, underscoring that these groups must never be targeted or subjected to indiscriminate violence.

“The Geneva Convention and their Additional Protocols are the cornerstone of international humanitarian law, setting out obligations for all parties in armed conflicts to distinguish between combatants and civilians, and to limit suffering by protecting those who are not taking part in fighting.”

“These rules prohibit direct attacks on civilians and infrastructure such as hospitals, schools, markets and all feasible precautions to avoid or minimize civilian harm.”

Adeyanju’s appeal comes amid reports of escalating tensions and military strikes involving U.S. and Israeli forces against Iranian targets, which have prompted widespread international concern over rising civilian casualties and potential breaches of international law.

At the United Nations, officials and diplomats have reiterated that all parties must respect the limits on the use of force established by the UN Charter and humanitarian law, to prevent further loss of innocent life and to protect the fundamental rights of non-combatants.

PR/Garry Ochigbo