By Michelle Nichols
The United States issued a warning to Iran at the United Nations Security Council on Monday about potential “severe consequences” if Iran continues to engage in aggressive actions against Israel or U.S. personnel in the Middle East.
U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. Linda Thomas-Greenfield stated, “We will not hesitate to act in self defense. Let there be no confusion. The United States does not want to see further escalation. We believe this should be the end of the direct exchange of fire between Israel and Iran.”
The Security Council convened following Israel’s strike on missile factories and other sites in Iran in retaliation for Iran’s attack on Israel with around 200 ballistic missiles on October 1.
Iran’s U.N. Ambassador accused the U.S. of being “complicit” through military support for Israel. He emphasized Iran’s commitment to diplomacy but also asserted Iran’s right to respond to acts of aggression.
Israel’s Ambassador to the U.N. called for the Security Council to impose “crippling sanctions” on Iran and prevent them from acquiring nuclear capabilities. He defended Israel’s strikes as “measured and proportionate” and reiterated Israel’s commitment to self-defense.
China’s Ambassador urged the U.S. to prioritize saving lives and preventing war, calling for immediate ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and de-escalation between Israel and Lebanon.
Russia’s Ambassador criticized the U.S. for supporting Israel and accused Israel of choosing to resolve conflicts through force with American backing.
Britain’s Ambassador stressed the importance of all sides exercising restraint, discouraging Iran from responding to Israel’s recent attack and emphasizing the need to avoid further escalation in the cycle of violence.