In an increasingly polarized global landscape, the role of international law remains paramount in safeguarding human rights. The United Nations’ recent condemnation of the United States’ naval blockade against Venezuela underscores the urgent need for accountability and dialogue, particularly as tensions escalate over resource control and national sovereignty. This development invites reflection on the principles of justice and the obligations of states to uphold human rights amidst geopolitical conflicts.
Four United Nations human rights experts have voiced strong condemnation of the United States’ partial naval blockade of Venezuela, deeming it an act of illegal armed aggression and urging the US Congress to take action. In a joint statement released on Wednesday, the experts affirmed, “There is no right to enforce unilateral sanctions through an armed blockade.” Their remarks come in light of US military deployments in the Caribbean aimed at intercepting oil tankers from Venezuela, which the US claims are under sanctions.
The experts emphasized that blockades represent a prohibited use of military force against another nation, as laid out in the United Nations Charter. They noted, “It is such a serious use of force that it is also expressly recognised as illegal armed aggression,” according to the General Assembly’s 1974 Definition of Aggression. Such actions gravely jeopardize the human right to life and other fundamental rights within Venezuela and the broader region.
US President Donald Trump has alleged that the Venezuelan government exploits its primary resource, oil, to fund activities related to “narcoterrorism, human trafficking, murders, and kidnappings.” However, Venezuelan authorities have rejected these accusations, countering that the United States is aiming to destabilize their government in order to gain control of the nation’s extensive oil reserves, which rank among the largest in the world.
Since the onset of the blockade in September, US forces have conducted numerous air strikes targeting vessels accused of drug trafficking; however, evidence to support these claims has not been publicly disclosed. Tragically, these military actions have reportedly resulted in over 100 fatalities.
The UN experts have called on the US Congress not only to intervene to prevent further military attacks but also to lift the blockade, asserting that the killings must be investigated and those responsible held accountable. They urged the international community to take active measures to halt the blockade and ensure justice for victims.
The four experts who signed the statement include Ben Saul, special rapporteur on protecting human rights amid counter-terrorism efforts; George Katrougalos, an expert on promoting a just international order; developmental expert Surya Deva; and Gina Romero, special rapporteur on the right to peaceful assembly and association. Their statements reflect a growing consensus in the global community advocating for a more humane approach to international relations. #PoliticsNews #WorldNews