Iran Warns UN: Any Military Aggression Will Be Met with Decisive Action
Iran’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Amir Saeed Iravani, has warned that his country will respond decisively if subjected to military aggression, describing recent U.S. statements as clear violations of international law and the UN Charter. In a formal letter to Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and the UN Security Council, Iravani called for urgent action to prevent further escalation and maintain regional stability.
U.S. Threats and Regional Tensions
In his letter dated February 19, 2026, Iravani highlighted repeated U.S. threats, including references to potential military operations from Diego Garcia and other bases. He warned that such statements breach Article 2(4) of the UN Charter and risk plunging the region into a new cycle of crises and instability.
The Iranian envoy emphasized that the volatile security situation and continued U.S. military buildup make these statements more than rhetorical, representing a genuine risk of catastrophic consequences for the region.
Iran’s Position: Diplomacy First, But Ready to Defend
While reaffirming Iran’s commitment to diplomacy and ongoing nuclear negotiations under the NPT framework, Iravani stressed that Iran does not seek conflict and will not initiate war. Yet, in line with Article 51 of the UN Charter, Iran reserves the right to a decisive and proportionate response should any aggression occur, with all hostile military facilities in the region considered legitimate targets.
The ambassador further emphasized that the United States would bear full responsibility for any unpredictable consequences resulting from potential military actions.
Call for UN Action
Iravani urged the Security Council and Secretary-General to act immediately to ensure the United States halts its unlawful threats, respects its obligations under the UN Charter, and refrains from actions that could escalate tensions or provoke military confrontation. He warned that failure to address such conduct risks normalizing the use of force as a political instrument and could endanger regional and international peace.
Commitment to Constructive Engagement
The Iranian letter reiterated Tehran’s constructive participation in nuclear talks with Washington, demanding full and verifiable lifting of unilateral coercive measures while addressing ambiguities regarding Iran’s peaceful nuclear program. Iravani stressed that, if the U.S. demonstrates sincerity and respect for international law, a durable and balanced solution remains entirely possible.