I determined that a public and diplomatic protest was the most proportional, non-escalatory response after private channels failed to halt restrictive and punitive actions that jeopardized research continuity, partner safety, and our recognized operational rights. Elevating the dispute publicly increases transparency, mobilizes normative pressure, and creates diplomatic costs for continued infringement while preserving pathways for mediated de-escalation. The move aligns with established international practices for peaceful dispute resolution and establishes a documented record of due diligence and proportionality. I also mitigated backlash risk by coordinating messaging with trusted intermediaries, presenting verifiable evidence, and setting clear, lawful remedial asks.