UN chief calls for maximum restraint after Iran’s attack on Israel
- UN secretary general says the Middle East is ‘on the brink’ after Iran launched a direct attack on Israel
- Iran’s drone and missile attack was revenge for an air strike on its embassy grounds in Damascus on April 1
United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres on Sunday warned members not to further escalate tensions with reprisals against Iran, while the US warned the Security Council it would work to hold Tehran accountable at the UN.
Iran launched a swarm of explosive drones and fired missiles on Saturday in its first direct attack on Israeli territory, risking a major escalation.
“The Middle East is on the brink. The people of the region are confronting a real danger of a devastating full-scale conflict. Now is the time to defuse and de-escalate,” Guterres told the meeting, which was called after Iran’s attack. “Neither the region nor the world can afford more war,” Guterres said.
Robert Wood, deputy US ambassador to the UN, called on the 15-member body to unequivocally condemn Iran’s attack, as he said the Security Council has an obligation to not let Iran’s actions go unanswered.
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“Let me be clear: if Iran or its proxies take actions against the United States or further action against Israel, Iran will be held responsible,” he said.
Iran’s UN ambassador, Amir Saeid Iravani, said his country’s action was necessary and proportionate, and he said that while Tehran does not seek an escalation or war in the region and has no intention of engaging in conflict with the US, it reaffirms its right to defend itself.
“If the US initiates military operations against Iran, its citizens, or its security and interests, Iran will use its inherent right to respond proportionately,” he said.
“Here, you can look at it,” he gestured with the tablet and told the Iranian ambassador, who was also seated in the Security Council chamber.
Erdan called on the Security Council to condemn Iran, reimpose sanctions and designate Iran’s Revolutionary Guards a terror organisation.
“The snooze button is no longer an option. The only option is to condemn Iran and utilise every means necessary to make them pay a heavy price for their horrible crimes,” Erdan told the meeting, which he requested on Saturday.
Iran says it gave warning 72 hours before attacking Israel. Not true, US says
“China expresses deep concern over the current escalation and calls on relevant parties to exercise calm and restraint to prevent further escalation,” the ministry said on Sunday morning.
“China calls on the international community, especially influential countries, to play a constructive role in maintaining regional peace and stability.”
