US Strike on Venezuela Sparks Fears of Breakdown of International Law, Analysts Warn

The United States has launched an attack on Venezuela in what critics say is a clear disregard for international norms, amid claims by former US President Donald Trump that Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife have been detained.

Sultan Barakat, Professor of Public Policy at Hamad Bin Khalifa University in Qatar, said the attack on Venezuela signals the erosion of respect for international law and could set a dangerous precedent for global rivals.

“This marks the end of the era of respecting international law,” Barakat said. “The attack creates a justification for international competitors to take similar actions.”

He described the operation as “possibly the final nail in the coffin of international agreements,” arguing that the fundamental principle of state sovereignty has been violated.

Barakat further said the US action aligns with recent military operations carried out jointly by the United States and Israel in Lebanon and Iran. “They are crossing boundaries that the world has long been accustomed to respecting under international law and norms,” he added.

Referring to broader geopolitical implications, Barakat warned that China could now cite US actions to justify similar steps regarding Taiwan, a territory Beijing has long claimed as part of its own.

Explosions reported in Caracas

Amid rising tensions with Washington, multiple explosions were reported in the Venezuelan capital, Caracas. International media outlets said plumes of smoke were seen rising from several parts of the city.

According to Al Jazeera, explosions were heard in the early hours of Saturday, with smoke spreading across a number of areas. Reuters also confirmed the reports, citing witnesses who said several loud blasts were heard overnight.

The Associated Press reported that at least seven explosions were heard in the capital, adding that low-flying aircraft were also observed over the city.

Reports said that power outages occurred near a major military base in southern Caracas following the incidents. However, the cause of the explosions and the extent of any damage or casualties could not be immediately confirmed.

The situation remains highly fluid, with growing international concern over the legality of the US action and its potential consequences for global stability.