UN Security Council Navigates Tensions After US-Israel Strikes on Iran

The United Nations Security Council convened an emergency session on February 28, 2026, following major airstrikes conducted by the United States and Israel across Iran. The meeting highlighted a cautious approach from many Council members, with limited direct criticism of the U.S.-Israeli operation, and was followed by retaliatory attacks launched by Tehran throughout the Middle East [UN News].

A Divided Council

The session revealed a reluctance among most Council members to openly condemn the U.S.-Israeli strikes. While some, including China and Russia, voiced strong objections, others offered more circumspect responses. This dynamic occurred despite the strikes taking place without UN authorization.

Key Positions and Statements

• United States: Ambassador Mike Waltz defended the operation, referencing past Security Council resolutions and alleging Iran’s failure to engage constructively in diplomatic efforts. He reiterated President Donald Trump’s stance of supporting the “great Iranian people” against their government [Times of Israel].
• Israel: Israel’s UN Ambassador Danny Danon asserted the right to act to prevent an “irreversible and immediate threat” posed by Iran’s actions and its nuclear and missile programs [AP News].
• United Kingdom: The UK, holding the Council presidency for February, convened the meeting and maintained a position of restraint, calling for de-escalation and diplomacy [AP News].
• China & Russia: Both countries strongly condemned the U.S.-Israeli intervention, arguing it violated international law.
• UN Secretary-General: António Guterres expressed concern that opportunities for diplomacy with Iran had been “squandered” and warned of the risk of a wider conflict with “grave consequences” [Times of Israel]. He too condemned Iran’s retaliatory attacks [Times of Israel].
• Bahrain: Focused on Tehran’s acts of aggression following the strikes, without commenting on the actions of the U.S. And Israel.

Reported Casualties and Allegations

During the Security Council meeting, Amir Saeid Iravani, Iran’s ambassador, claimed that hundreds of civilians were killed and wounded in the U.S. And Israeli airstrikes [AP News]. Reports also surfaced during the meeting that U.S. And Israeli airstrikes reportedly killed Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei [AP News].

US Justification and Concerns

The U.S. Ambassador, Mike Waltz, justified the actions as aimed at dismantling Iran’s missile capabilities, disrupting support for proxy militias, and preventing the development of a nuclear weapon. The administration of President Donald Trump has been noted for its disregard for international law, which has caused unease among some allies at the UN, though few are willing to publicly challenge Washington [Times of Israel].

Looking Ahead

The UN Security Council’s response reflects the complex geopolitical landscape and the delicate balance of power within the international body. The situation remains volatile, and further escalation could have significant regional and global consequences. The focus now shifts to preventing a wider conflict and seeking a diplomatic resolution, though the path forward remains uncertain.