Russia Condemns US Military Strikes on Iran at UN Security Council
In an emergency session held on Sunday at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, Russia's Ambassador to the UN, Vassily Nebenzia, delivered a sharp rebuke of the United States over recent military operations targeting Iran's nuclear facilities. Nebenzia described these strikes as reckless moves that could unravel global security and trigger disastrous consequences.
Accusations of Recklessness and Provocation
Addressing the Security Council under the agenda on "threats to international peace and security," Nebenzia condemned the US-led attacks as "irresponsible, dangerous, and provocative." He warned that by pursuing these actions, Washington had figuratively "opened a Pandora's box," unleashing uncertainties that could escalate tensions and cause widespread suffering.
He highlighted that the US, in supporting Israel's interests, appeared willing to disregard the human cost, referencing the devastating toll on Palestinian civilians. Nebenzia emphasized that the US gamble with global safety could have far-reaching ramifications not only in the Middle East but throughout the international system.
Calls for Diplomacy and Mediation Offers
Reiterating Russia’s ongoing offers to mediate the Iranian nuclear issue, Nebenzia criticized the US for dismissing diplomatic channels. He stressed Moscow’s commitment to seeking peaceful, mutually acceptable solutions and held the US accountable for rejecting such opportunities.
"We have insisted on mediation with our US colleagues to resolve the nuclear program peacefully, yet they have shown little interest in diplomacy," Nebenzia stated.
Warnings of Escalation Toward Conflict
Nebenzia issued a stark warning that, unless the escalation is halted, the Middle East could spiral into a large-scale conflict with unpredictable consequences for international security. He also cautioned about the possibility of the situation inching dangerously close to a nuclear disaster.
The Russian ambassador also urged an immediate stop to aggressive actions from both the US and Israel, encouraging restraint and a return to international negotiations as the path forward.
"We call for an immediate cessation of hostilities from all sides and a renewed focus on diplomatic engagement," he said.
Context of the Strikes
The UN session followed the US-led "Operation Midnight Hammer," which targeted three critical nuclear sites in Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan, escalating the already tense relationship between Iran, the US, and Israel.
This development underscores the fragile state of affairs in the region and the urgent need for dialogue to prevent further destabilization.
Russia’s denunciation highlights the growing international concerns about the potential fallout from military actions in Iran, signaling a critical juncture in global peace efforts.
