The UN Security Council has held an emergency meeting following Iran’s retaliatory attack on Israel. Iran accuses Israel of violating international law by striking its diplomatic mission in Damascus two weeks ago. The UN Secretary-General has called for de-escalation ans said the World cannot afford another war in the Middle East.

New York

The United Nations Security Council convened for an emergency meeting in the wake of Iran's retaliatory attack on Israel. This action from Iran comes as a response to an accusation against Israel for targeting its diplomatic mission in Damascus, which Iran claims is a violation of international law. The incident reportedly occurred two weeks prior to Iran's retaliatory measures.

In response to the escalating tensions, the UN Secretary-General has urged for restraint and de-escalation from all involved parties. Emphasizing the critical need for peace, the Secretary-General warned that the world cannot afford another war in the Middle East, calling for diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict and prevent further violence.



U.N. chief urges restraint after Iran attacks Israel

The UN Secretary-General urged the world to take a step back and avoid any military provocation. And we have a shared responsibility to actively engage all parties concerned to prevent further escalation. Iran's ambassador said his country does not seek war and only took action after the UN failed to do so. Regrettably, the Security Council has failed in its duty to maintain international peace and security. Russia proposed a press statement to denounce this atrocious act, which was backed by China, Algeria, and many members, but was blocked by the US, UK, and France. Faced with such circumstances, the Islamic Republic of Iran had no choice but to exercise its inherent right to self-defense under international law. Israel said the fact Iran itself struck Israel and didn't use proxies marks a new phase in regional tensions. Following such a massive and direct attack on Israel, the entire world, let alone Israel, cannot settle for inaction. We will defend our future. As for the US and Russia, they have differing views on who started this and who's to blame. The US pointed the finger directly at Tehran. In the coming days, and in consultation with other member states, the United States will explore additional measures to hold Iran accountable here at the United Nations. More immediately, the Security Council must unequivocally condemn Iran's aggressive actions and call for Iran and its partners and proxies to cease their attacks. Russia reminded the Council that the US, France, and UK all failed to condemn Israel's attack on the Iranian consulate in Syria, a blatant violation of international law, but now want to condemn Iran for its response. Today in the Security Council, we're witnessing a display of hypocrisy and double standards, which is almost embarrassing to watch. After the meeting concluded, Malta's ambassador said the Security Council's focus needs to return to Gaza and a ceasefire, release of captives, and unhindered aid. Gabriel Azando, Al Jazeera, at the United Nations in New York.

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