UN Warns Against Military Threats to Iran Amid Ongoing Protests
A senior United Nations official has issued a stark warning that threats of military action against Iran, particularly those voiced by US President Donald Trump, are dangerously escalating tensions in a country already gripped by widespread civil unrest.
The Islamic Republic has been shaken by some of the most significant anti-government demonstrations in its modern history, though these protests have reportedly diminished following brutal state repression and a week-long internet blackout that has effectively silenced the Iranian people.
International Tensions Escalate
Until Wednesday, the United States maintained its position of threatening military intervention should Iran proceed with death sentences against protesters. The US envoy to the UN confirmed that all options remain "on the table" in what many view as a concerning escalation of rhetoric.
"We note with alarm various public statements suggesting possible military strikes on Iran. This external dimension adds volatility to an already combustible situation," UN Assistant Secretary-General Martha Pobee told the Security Council, emphasising the urgent need to prevent further deterioration.
Voices from the Iranian Diaspora
Iranian-American journalist Masih Alinejad, addressing the UN Security Council at the invitation of the United States, declared that "all Iranians are united" in their opposition to the clerical system. She highlighted the protesters' anger over state resources being diverted to proxy groups rather than addressing domestic needs.
"Millions of Iranians flooded into the streets demanding that their money stop being stolen and sent to Hamas, to Hezbollah, to Houthi fighters," Alinejad stated, referring to Iran-backed armed groups across the region.
US Position and Global Response
US Ambassador Mike Waltz reaffirmed American support for the Iranian people while criticising what he termed the regime's unprecedented level of repression. "President Trump is a man of action, not endless talk like we see at the United Nations," Waltz declared, maintaining that all options remain available to "stop the slaughter."
The international community's response has been swift, with New Zealand becoming the latest nation to take decisive action by temporarily closing its Tehran embassy and evacuating diplomatic staff due to the deteriorating security situation.
Diplomatic Evacuations Begin
New Zealand's diplomatic personnel departed Iran safely on commercial flights, with embassy operations now relocated to Ankara, Turkey. The country's Foreign Ministry has issued urgent travel warnings, advising all New Zealanders to leave Iran immediately.
Foreign Minister Winston Peters expressed his nation's horror at Tehran's violent response to peaceful demonstrations. "We condemn the brutal crackdown being carried out by Iran's security forces, including the killing of protesters," he stated, emphasising that Iranians' fundamental rights to peaceful protest and freedom of expression are being brutally suppressed.
The ministry acknowledged severe communication challenges, with the internet blackout making it extremely difficult for people to contact family and friends within Iran, further isolating the Iranian people during this critical period.