New York: A recent session of the UN Security Council witnessed a heated exchange between Iranian and Israeli ambassadors, underscoring the rising tensions between the two nations amid growing fears of a regional crisis.
During the meeting, UN Secretary-General António Guterres warned that the world is “rapidly heading towards a crisis,” emphasizing the urgency of de-escalation. Permanent Council members the United Kingdom and France echoed the call for restraint, urging all sides to immediately lower tensions.
While global powers deliberated on the situation, the representatives of Iran and Israel engaged in a fiery verbal confrontation, signaling the hardline stances adopted by both governments.
Iran’s ambassador condemned what he called Israel’s “unprovoked” attacks and insisted that Iran’s nuclear program is strictly for peaceful purposes. He further accused the United States of being complicit in attacks against Iran and criticized the Security Council for failing to uphold its responsibilities.
“Iran will continue to defend itself against Israeli aggression,” the Iranian envoy stated firmly.
On the other hand, the Israeli ambassador accused Iran of pursuing a “genocidal agenda,” claiming Tehran is dangerously close to acquiring nuclear weapons. He declared that Israel would keep targeting Iran’s nuclear facilities “until the threat is eliminated.”
China, also a permanent member of the Council, criticized Israel for violating international law, while Russia described Israeli attacks as a “grave insult” to diplomacy.
The United States took a starkly different position, branding Iran as a “source of terrorism” in the Middle East and reaffirming its full support for its ally Israel, including backing Israel’s actions.
