Iran’s mission to the United Nations has suggested that a potential military response to the deadly Israeli air raid on the Iranian consulate in Damascus could have been avoided if the UN Security Council had condemned Israel’s attack. In a statement made on social media, the Iranian mission expressed their belief that had the Security Council denounced the aggression and brought the perpetrators to justice, Iran may not have felt the need to retaliate against Israel.
Iran has vowed to deliver a “decisive” response to the Israeli attack that resulted in the deaths of seven members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, including two generals, on April 1st. The escalating tensions between the two countries have led to concerns of a broader regional conflict, with calls for de-escalation from various international actors.
German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock cautioned against further escalation during discussions with Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian. Amidst the escalating tensions, Germany’s Lufthansa suspended flights to Tehran, and Russia advised its citizens against traveling to the Middle East, particularly to Israel, Palestine, and Lebanon.
The United States has pledged its unwavering support for Israel’s security and warned Iran against any potential attacks. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken reiterated this support in conversations with various foreign counterparts, emphasizing the need for restraint to prevent further escalation.
In response to the escalating tensions, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a warning to Iran and other adversaries, stating that Israel is prepared for any challenges and will respond to any threats accordingly. The recent attack on the Iranian diplomatic facility in Damascus has further heightened tensions between Iran and Israel, with both countries preparing for potential retaliation.