Turnbull Accuses US of ‘Sovereign Exceptionalism’ and Disregarding International Law
Former Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull has delivered a scathing critique of the United States’ approach to international law, asserting that the Trump administration operates under a principle of “sovereign exceptionalism.” Speaking at the Australian Financial Review business summit in Sydney, Turnbull pointed to actions like the alleged “kidnapping” of a Venezuelan official and the assassination of Iranian military leader Qassem Soleimani as evidence of the US disregarding established legal norms.
The Erosion of International Legal Frameworks
Turnbull’s comments highlight a growing concern about the potential unraveling of the international rules-based order. He stated the US “expressly disavows international law,” suggesting a belief that laws applicable to other nations do not bind the United States. This concept, termed “sovereign exceptionalism,” implies a perceived entitlement to act outside the constraints of international legal frameworks.
This isn’t a modern phenomenon, but Turnbull’s remarks underscore the perceived intensification of this approach under the Trump administration. He referenced Trump’s own statement that his global power was limited only by his “own morality,” a comment Turnbull delivered with pointed irony.
Historical Precedents and US-Australia Relations
The tension between the US and Australia over international law isn’t isolated. Reports indicate strained relations during the Trump presidency, including a contentious phone call with Turnbull regarding a refugee resettlement deal. This call was described as the “worst call” Trump had with a foreign leader, according to reports from the BBC.
historical examples, such as KKR cutting ties with Turnbull after a Trump attack, demonstrate the potential for US actions to have ripple effects on international relationships. These instances suggest a willingness to exert pressure and disregard diplomatic norms.
Implications for the Middle East and Global Security
Turnbull’s concerns align with broader anxieties about escalating conflicts and unintended consequences in regions like the Middle East. Sky News Australia reported on the “very dangerous” potential for unintended consequences stemming from a US-Iran conflict. The disregard for international law, as highlighted by Turnbull, could exacerbate these risks, leading to further instability and potentially wider-scale conflicts.
Aukus Review and Australia’s Position
Recent developments, such as the US Aukus review, are being viewed through the lens of these concerns. According to The Guardian, some believe the review could “save Australia from itself,” potentially mitigating risks associated with aligning too closely with a US foreign policy that disregards international legal norms.
FAQ
Q: What is ‘sovereign exceptionalism’?
A: It’s the belief that a nation, particularly the United States is exempt from international laws and norms that apply to other countries.
Q: What specific actions did Turnbull cite as breaches of international law?
A: He referenced the alleged “kidnapping” of a Venezuelan official and the assassination of Iranian military leader Qassem Soleimani.
Q: How did the Trump administration view international law?
A: Turnbull stated the administration “expressly disavows” international law, suggesting a belief that it doesn’t apply to the US.
Did you realize? The concept of “sovereign exceptionalism” has historical roots, but its application and articulation have varied across different administrations.
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