Tehran:An Iranian-American professor has criticized the United States and its allies, claiming they are losing the war of attrition against Iran and that the sanctions and blockades imposed on the Islamic Republic amount to war crimes.

According to Islamic Republic News Agency, David N. Yaghoubian, a professor at a California State University and an analyst of international affairs, stated in an exclusive interview that these measures constitute collective punishment, which is considered a war crime under international humanitarian law. He emphasized that actions restricting Iranians' access to essential goods and services, such as food, medicine, and safe transportation, are crimes against humanity.

Yaghoubian further elaborated on the lack of a viable military solution for the United States to achieve victory in its ongoing conflict with Iran. He mentioned that the destruction of military bases and the depletion of costly defense systems indicate the diminishing effectiveness of US and allied forces in the region. He voiced doubt about the prospects of achieving any substantial victory through continued military efforts or sanctions.

In discussing the international response, Yaghoubian highlighted the ineffectiveness of the United Nations in addressing violations of the UN Charter and international law by the United States and its allies. He pointed to China's recent legal stance against recognizing foreign secondary sanctions as a potential model for other nations to follow to maintain sovereignty and uphold international law.

Yaghoubian also criticized US Secretary of State Marco Rubio's rhetoric against Iran, describing it as part of a broader pattern of hostile discourse. He suggested that the framing of the conflict as a civilizational war was likely intended to appeal to domestic political interests in the United States, particularly in light of upcoming midterm elections.