UN Chief Calls US-Israeli Strikes on Iran a Violation of International Law

The UN Security Council held an emergency session on Saturday following US and Israeli military strikes on Iran. UN Secretary-General António Guterres opened the session by labeling the strikes a clear act of aggression and a violation of both international law and the UN Charter.

While Guterres also condemned retaliatory actions by Iran’s Revolutionary Guard, he warned that the escalating conflict has created "tension that could get out of control at any time."

Iranian Ambassador Amir Saied Iravani described the strikes as "war crimes" and warned that Iran would continue to retaliate if the aggression persists. Iravani stated that Iran is utilizing all necessary defensive means to repel hostile actions, adding that Tehran now considers all regional bases and assets of opposing forces as "legitimate military targets."

US Ambassador Mike Waltz defended the strikes, citing Iran’s nuclear ambitions and missile capabilities as the "root causes" of the intervention. "Iran cannot have nuclear weapons; this is a matter of global security, not politics," Waltz stated, asserting that the US is taking "lawful action."

Israeli Ambassador Danny Danon echoed this sentiment, stating the operation targeted nuclear infrastructure and ballistic missile installations. He argued that the Iranian regime left them with "no reasonable alternative" and confirmed the joint effort would continue as long as the threat remains.