Israel’s representative at the United Nations, Ambassador Gilad Erdan, urged the Security Council on Sunday to impose “all possible sanctions” against Iran following the Islamic republic’s unprecedented attack on Israel.
Erdan emphasized the necessity for immediate action, stating, “Today the council must take action and condemn Iran for their terror,” and urged nations to ‘impose all possible sanctions on Iran before it’s too late.'”
In contrast, Iran’s envoy to the United Nations defended the country’s actions, asserting that the attack on Israel was an exercise of its “inherent right to self-defense.”
Amir Saeid Iravani, Iran’s representative, criticized the Security Council for failing to uphold international peace and security, particularly in light of Israel’s alleged strike on an Iranian consulate in Damascus earlier in the month.
Iravani stated that Tehran was left with no option but to retaliate, stressing that Iran does “not seek escalation or war,” but will respond to any perceived threat or aggression.
Citing his part, Erdan characterized Iran as the “number one global sponsor of terror” and accused it of destabilizing the region and the world, while Iravani maintained Iran’s right to self-defense and criticized the Security Council’s handling of the situation. Both representatives reiterated their countries’ commitment to responding to threats while presenting differing viewpoints on the events.
Israel reaffirmed its commitment amidst Iran’s strikes, stating, “Even while under attack from Iran, we have not lost sight—not for one moment—of our critical mission in Gaza to rescue our hostages from the hands of Iran’s-proxy Hamas.”
“Even while under attack from Iran, we have not lost sight—not for one moment—of our critical mission in Gaza to rescue our hostages from the hands of Iran’s-proxy Hamas.”
Listen to IDF Spokesperson RAdm. Daniel Hagari’s full statement: pic.twitter.com/DfZamaBwU5
— Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) April 14, 2024