The theocratic dictatorship of Iran is a criminal, cruel and obscurantist regime that tortures, persecutes and kills its own people. Its fall, if it occurs, is good news for Iranians and the world.
The US and Israeli military attack on Iran is a violation of International Law with catastrophic consequences for regional and world peace, which will lead the world to an escalation of violence, a humanitarian tragedy and economic decline.
I completely identify myself with the words of Pope Leo
I have empathy for Iranian citizens who are persecuted and tortured or who have lost loved ones and who, quite understandably, celebrate the possible fall of the regime, even though the country’s future is extremely uncertain. But more is required of democratic leaders in countries that are (or were) governed by the rule of law. They are required to comply with International Law, under penalty of creating a set of precedents that will end the unstable global balance and collective peace and security.
When the legal order is violated, the law of the strongest prevails because the Law serves to protect the weakest. Portugal, which is a small country, has the duty (and interest) to defend a world order based on rule of lawwhether for ethical or pragmatic reasons.
Unfortunately, the law of fear has already taken hold even in latitudes where this was not customary: I am referring to the relationship between Europe and the USA. This is evident in many of the speeches and comments that we have heard in recent days regarding the use of the Lajes Base by the USA in this military operation and which highlight the dangers that would arise for Portugal if it refused or hindered American intentions. The fear is justified, since the USA today is led by a narcissistic, totally unpredictable autocrat, who is capable of the most absurd and delusional acts and who is the main risk factor for world peace and security. But this cannot put at risk Portugal’s commitment to an international order based on the principles and values of United Nations Charteran organization that, in fact, Trump has done everything to humiliate and belittle.
Ali Khamenei was a cruel monster. Trump is increasingly similar to the crazy dictators who, since classical antiquity, have remained in the most infamous annals of history. Netanyahu is an executioner who wants to divert attention from the genocide he is committing in Gaza. Both intend to win the internal elections taking place this year in their countries and will spare no effort – or the number of deaths, maimed and injured people – to achieve this end.
My thoughts go to the innocent victims of these three men. Starting with the girls (always the girls!) who were killed in the attack on a school in Iran. There is a famous phrase that says that truth is the first victim of war. Innocence too.
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