The death of Iranian Gen. Qassem Soleimani was an assassination on foreign sovereign territory, a violation of international law, an American attack on an autonomous state without a declaration of war. The U.S. has carried out similar atrocities many times in the past. Czech diplomacy, headed by Foreign Minister Tomas Petricek, should distance itself from this kind of act and severely condemn it. Thus far we’ve not had such a statement from the ministry.
The fallout from the death of Soleimani has economic implications as well. It has caused increased oil and gold prices, and this trend may continue. It is, therefore, not a strike out of range of influencing Europe; to the contrary, we will all feel its results. Czech soldiers are presently unharmed according to communications from our officials. Thus far no one has decided to evacuate them. The same cannot be said of Germany and Slovakia. Fears for the lives of our soldiers are evidently justified. Iran attacked two bases overnight, although there were no Czech soldiers there. How this situation will develop further, no one can predict.
It would also be pertinent to reevaluate the participation of our forces in further foreign missions. Iranian retribution for the death of the general might, moreover, affect many targets around the world. The U.S. president’s decision thus endangers many people. Civilians, women and children, will once again die needlessly, even if American attacks in no way influence other states.
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