What are ‘civilian’ sites in international law and where have US, Iran hit?
Summary
The United States and Iran have been attacking each other’s military and civilian sites amid rising tensions around the Strait of Hormuz. Both countries’ strikes have hit civilian infrastructure, raising concerns about violations of international law that protects non-military targets in war.Key Facts
- The US and Iran are in a cycle of attacks aiming to stop each other from gaining military control over the Strait of Hormuz.
- The US has bombed parts of southern and other areas in Iran; Iran has retaliated by striking US military bases in nearby Gulf countries and Jordan.
- Both sides’ attacks have damaged civilian infrastructure such as power plants, bridges, railways, and airports.
- At least 50 people in Iran have died and about 500 have been injured since fighting resumed on July 15.
- International law, including the 1949 Geneva Conventions, forbids attacking civilian objects unless they are being used for military purposes and destruction provides a clear military benefit.
- The United Nations Secretary-General expressed concern over attacks on civilian infrastructure in the region and called them unacceptable.
- President Donald Trump has publicly threatened to destroy Iranian civilian infrastructure unless Iran agrees to negotiate.
- The war began with US and Israeli strikes in February, hitting multiple civilian sites and causing many deaths, including at a girls’ school.
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