Dead in Practice: Araghchi Slams Western Double Standards | DISCUSS

On Wednesday, March 25, 2026, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi issued a stinging critique of the global legal order, declaring that "international law is dead in practice".

Araghchi’s remarks, posted on social media and echoed by the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, were triggered by the ongoing U.S.–Israeli military campaign against Iran (Operation Epic Fury) and what he described as the "collapse" of Western moral authority.

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The "Double Standard" Argument

The Foreign Minister argued that the rules-based international order has been weaponized and applied selectively by Western powers:

Ukraine vs. Gaza/Iran: Araghchi contrasted the swift Western condemnation of actions in Ukraine with the "deafening silence" regarding U.S.–Israeli strikes on Iranian soil and civilian infrastructure in Gaza.

Acquiescence as Law: He stated that silence in the face of current violations is not "neutrality" but active acquiescence to a world where "naked force" has become the new norm.

The "Jungle" Narrative: In a separate address, Araghchi warned that the U.S. has created a "jungle" where law no longer exists, forcing nations to rely solely on military strength for survival.

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Rare Praise for Germany’s President

Despite his broad condemnation of the West, Araghchi offered a "rare credit" to German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier:

Steinmeier’s Rebuke: On Tuesday, President Steinmeier sharply criticized U.S. President Donald Trump’s "illegal" war against Iran, calling it a "violation of international law" during a speech in Berlin.

Iranian Reaction: Araghchi applauded Steinmeier for having the "courage to speak up," urging other leaders who claim to value the rule of law to follow Germany’s lead.

European Division: The exchange highlights a deepening rift within the West, as Germany continues to refuse participation in the U.S.–Israeli military coalition.

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Conflict Update: March 25, 2026

The Minister's statement comes amidst a significant escalation in hostilities:

Event	Status / Impact
Casualty Count	Over 1,340 people killed in Iran since Feb 28, including the former Supreme Leader.
Strait of Hormuz	Effectively closed to vessels associated with the U.S., Israel, or their allies.
Missile Alerts	Israel issued a flurry of alerts on Wednesday as Iran targeted large parts of the country with multiple ballistic missiles.
Ceasefire Rumors	Iran has received a 15-point U.S. proposal via Pakistan, though Araghchi’s office publicly scoffs at direct diplomacy for now.

"International law is dead in practice... Still, credit to President Steinmeier for condemning the violations against Iranians. Those who value the rule of law should also speak up." — Abbas Araghchi, March 25, 2026.