EU Foreign Policy Chief Warns Erosion of International Law Fuels Middle East Chaos
ISTANBUL — Kaja Kallas, the foreign policy chief of the European Union, said Thursday that rising instability in the Middle East reflects a broader breakdown of international law.
Speaking at the University of Munich in Switzerland, Kallas argued that the current regional turmoil intensified after recent attacks by United States and Israel on Iran. However, she said the deeper cause lies in the weakening of global legal norms.
Russia war on Ukraine triggered global signal
Kallas pointed to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine as the moment that accelerated the erosion of international rules.
She stressed that the conflict sent a message across the world that violations of international law may occur without serious consequences.
According to Kallas, Russia’s status as a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council made the situation particularly damaging for the credibility of global institutions.
As a result, she warned that the international system now faces increasing instability.
Accountability key to restoring global order
Kallas emphasized that restoring international law must remain a global priority. Without accountability, she argued, countries will continue to ignore established rules.
She warned that repeated violations could lead to more instability and conflict across different regions.
Concerns over China global strategy
Kallas also raised concerns about China, saying the country is taking advantage of the current weakening of global rules.
She argued that Beijing is expanding its nuclear arsenal faster than other nations while building strategic influence worldwide.
According to Kallas, China has also increased pressure on countries in the East China Sea and South China Sea. At the same time, she accused Beijing of supporting Russia’s war efforts in Ukraine and promoting an alternative global order.
Transatlantic shifts reshape global politics
Kallas also highlighted changes in foreign policy by the United States, which she said have significantly affected the transatlantic relationship.
She noted that the shift—described by some analysts as a realignment or a new geopolitical dynamic—has shaken long-standing partnerships.
According to Kallas, these developments signal a major transformation in the global political landscape.
Emerging world order marked by power competition
Looking ahead, Kallas warned that the international system is undergoing a major transformation.
She described the emerging global order as one shaped increasingly by strategic rivalry and power politics. In this environment, a small group of military powers may attempt to dominate specific regions and expand their influence.
Kallas concluded that strengthening international law and multilateral cooperation will remain essential to maintaining global stability.
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