Scotland’s First Minister Says US‑Israeli Actions Have No Basis Under International Law

LONDON, March 18, 2026 — Scotland’s First Minister John Swinney has sharply criticised recent military actions by the United States and Israel in Iran, stating that they “have no basis under international law” and urging an end to the conflict and increased diplomatic engagement.

In a post on social media platform X, Swinney described the joint actions as unjustifiable and lacking legal legitimacy, saying they must be halted “for the sake of innocent children in Iran, for the sake of peace”. He also emphasised that the escalation of violence in the Middle East is being closely watched worldwide.

The criticism comes amid a rapidly deteriorating situation in the region following the military strikes that began on Feb. 28, which resulted in the reported deaths of around 1,300 people, including former Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. These strikes were followed by Iranian drone and missile attacks targeting military sites in Israel, Jordan, Iraq and Gulf countries that host US forces, contributing to regional instability and disruptions to global markets and aviation.

Swinney’s remarks underscore a growing international debate about the legality of the use of force by States without explicit authorisation from the United Nations Security Council or clear evidence of self‑defense against an imminent threat. Under the UN Charter, the use of force by states is restricted except in cases of self‑defense after an armed attack or when mandated by the Council — standards that many legal experts argue were not met in this case.

Experts and international law scholars have noted that military interventions without appropriate legal justification are widely considered violations of both the UN Charter’s prohibition on aggression and customary law governing the use of force between nations — principles that seek to protect sovereignty, territorial integrity and civilian populations.

Despite the First Minister’s criticism, the situation on the ground remains tense, with no immediate end to hostilities in sight. Continued clashes between opposing forces have drawn condemnation from human rights groups and humanitarian organisations, which report high civilian casualties and widespread displacement.

Swinney also used his statement to call for intensified diplomatic efforts aimed at de‑escalation and peace negotiations, urging world leaders and international organisations to pursue avenues that avoid further loss of life and suffering among civilian populations.

Observers say that statements like these reflect growing international concern over the expanded scope of military actions in the Middle East, as well as broader questions about state compliance with international norms and legal obligations designed to regulate armed conflict and protect civilian lives.