Attack on Iran normalises global descent into the ‘law of the jungle’
South China Morning Post
by Tian ShichenMarch 2, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The recent joint U.S.-Israeli military strikes in Iran mark a significant shift in global geopolitics, signaling a move away from the post-World War II legal framework that has governed international relations for decades. This escalation follows the earlier U.S. intervention in Venezuela, raising concerns about the erosion of established norms and the rise of a "law of the jungle" mentality where strategic interests override international law. The strikes represent a turning point, as they challenge the foundational principles enshrined in the United Nations Charter and symbolize a broader breakdown of the rules-based international order.
The systematic dismantling of this legal framework is evident in recent events. The U.S. and Israel's actions in Iran and Venezuela reflect a growing disregard for diplomatic solutions and multilateral institutions, instead prioritizing unilateral military force to achieve strategic objectives. This approach undermines decades of efforts to establish stability through international agreements and cooperation. The notion of "might makes right" is increasingly taking precedence, with powerful nations using their influence to bypass legal and diplomatic processes.
The implications of this shift are profound. If major powers continue to act beyond the bounds of international law, it risks destabilizing global security and increasing tensions between nations. The erosion of trust in institutions like the United Nations could lead to a fractured international system, where conflicts are resolved not through dialogue but through brute force. This trajectory raises critical questions about the future of global governance and the potential for widespread instability.
For readers interested in world affairs, understanding this shift is crucial. It highlights the fragility of international norms and the growing influence of Realpolitik in modern diplomacy. As powerful nations normalize the use of military force to
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Originally published on South China Morning Post on 3/2/2026