JASTA violates international law

Jeddah : The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) has followed with great concern the passing of the U.S. law known as the Justice against Sponsors of Terrorism Act (JASTA).

This law is a violation of the principle of immunity of sovereign states, which is a basic and established legal principle in international relations and international law.

The reactions of the international community to this law underscore the need to adhere to the centuries old position held by states that no sovereign state, relying on arbitrary standards as means of applying political and economic pressure, may impose its jurisdiction on another sovereign state. Otherwise, this would be a breach of the independence of states and a flagrant violation of established principles in international law and interstate relations.

Regrettably, this unilateral law is an invitation to serious chaos in international relations. It upsets a firm and established international legal order and diminishes the integrity of the entire international legal system because it opens the door to states to pass similar laws, which is expected in reaction to protect their rights.

The current international crisis situation and the humanitarian tragedies we witness everyday should propel all states, particularly the big powers, to affirm their respect for and commitment to the rules of international law. They should look for solutions to these international crises within and under the umbrella of international law, and not by breaching or violating it. Otherwise, the world would unfortunately witness more chaos, injustice, and oppression.

The OIC expressed its hope that the American legislature would reconsider the said law and that it would not enter into effect so as to ensure regional and international peace and to ensure that the international efforts to combat terrorism are not negatively impacted.