Indo-Pacific Journal of Soft-Power, Vol. 2 No. 1 2026 - P-ISSN: XXXX-XXXX E-ISSN: XXXX-XXXX
International Legal Analysis of the United States' Economic Sanctions Policy Against Iran Following its Withdrawal from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action
Fikri Ardiyansyah
Department of International Relations, Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, Satyagama University
DOI:
ABSTRACT
This study examines the legality of economic sanctions imposed by the United States against Iran following its withdrawal from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). The re-imposition of sanctions under the “maximum pressure” policy has generated significant debate within international law, particularly regarding unilateral coercive measures, extraterritorial jurisdiction, and the erosion of multilateral agreements. This research aims to analyze whether such sanctions are consistent with fundamental principles of international law, including state sovereignty, non-intervention, and the obligation to act in good faith. This study employs a qualitative research method with a normative juridical approach. Data are collected through library research, focusing on primary legal materials such as the United Nations Charter, United Nations Security Council Resolution 2231, and relevant decisions of the International Court of Justice, as well as secondary sources including academic literature and reports from international organizations. The analysis is conducted using interpretative and analytical methods to assess the conformity of U.S. sanctions with international legal norms. In conclusion, the economic sanctions imposed by the United States against Iran after its withdrawal from the JCPOA cannot be considered fully consistent with international law. This research underscores the need for stronger adherence to multilateral mechanisms and greater respect for international legal principles in the implementation of economic sanctions.
Keywords: International Law, Economic Sanctions, JCPOA, Sovereignty, Non-
Intervention, United States, Iran
