Iran Warns Against Attacks on Diplomatic Missions
Iran's UN envoy, Amir Saeed Erfani, has issued a stark warning to the international community regarding the safety of Iranian diplomatic missions. Following the assassination of Hezbollah Secretary-General Hassan Nasrallah in an Israeli airstrike, which also claimed the life of an Iranian Revolutionary Guard commander, Erfani emphasized that Iran will respond decisively to any aggression against its representatives. He stated, "Iran will not hesitate to exercise its inherent rights under international law to take all measures to defend its vital national and security interests."
Urgent Call to the UN Security Council
In a letter addressed to the UN Security Council, Erfani condemned what he termed as Israeli terrorist aggression. He urged the Council to convene an emergency meeting to address the escalating violence and to condemn Israel's actions in Lebanon in the strongest possible terms. The Iranian representative characterized the Israeli attacks as cowardly acts, noting that they have led to significant casualties and the displacement of tens of thousands of civilians. Since last Monday, Israel's extensive air strikes have resulted in hundreds of deaths, further heightening tensions in the region.
The Risk of Regional Conflict
Erfani's call to action comes amid fears that the ongoing violence could escalate into a comprehensive war in the region. He urged the Security Council to take immediate and decisive measures to halt Israeli aggression and prevent further destabilization. The situation remains precarious as Iran has previously retaliated with missile and drone strikes in response to attacks on its interests, emphasizing the potential for a larger conflict if diplomatic efforts fail.
As tensions rise, the international community watches closely, aware that any misstep could lead to a broader confrontation.
