Tehran: Attacks on civilian infrastructure and schools during the US military campaign against Iran constitute clear war crimes under the Geneva Conventions, an international law professor says, adding that Iran has the legal right to seek reparations. Davoud Aqaei, a professor of international law at the University of Tehran, told IRNA on Tuesday that countries hosting US military bases used for launching attacks on Iran have exposed themselves to legal liability and may themselves be considered parties to the conflict under international law.

According to Islamic Republic News Agency, Aqaei emphasized that states that violate the principle of neutrality by allowing their territory to be used for military purposes by a belligerent party could face legal consequences. He noted that by enhancing a belligerent's military capacity, these states effectively become parties to the conflict and may be considered legitimate targets by the opposing side.

Aqaei explained that the United States relies on military bases in countries such as Kuwait, Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, and Jordan, as it has no bases in the air or space. He suggested that these facilities, when used for military purposes, could be regarded as legitimate targets for Iran.

On the possibility of Iran seeking reparations for damages, Aqaei highlighted the distinction between legal theory and practical reality. He stated that while legal criteria exist for submitting claims to international judicial bodies, the influence of major powers like the United States often obstructs the realization of justice.

Aqaei urged Iranian officials to document evidence of aggression and take necessary legal steps, although he expressed skepticism about the likelihood of obtaining reparations under current conditions. He affirmed Iran's entitlement under international law, citing violations of the prohibition on the use of force and the principle of non-aggression by aggressor states.

The professor also addressed the legal framework regarding attacks on civilian sites, confirming that such attacks constitute war crimes under the 1949 Geneva Conventions. He cited a specific incident at the Shajare Tayyebeh school in Minab, where an attack resulted in the death of 168 students, as a clear example of a war crime.

Earlier, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei criticized Washington for disregarding humanitarian law during its military campaign against Iran, underscoring the US's admission of non-compliance with international humanitarian rules.

Tehran has announced its intention to document attacks on civilian infrastructure and pursue the matter through legal and international channels.