Iran’s Ambassador to the United Nations, Ali Bahreini, issued a strong warning on Wednesday, declaring that Tehran considers the United States “complicit” in Israel’s ongoing airstrikes against Iran, and would not hesitate to retaliate if Washington becomes directly involved.
Speaking at a press conference, Bahreini emphasized that Iran holds the U.S. responsible for backing Israel’s military operations, which escalated significantly on June 13 with a surprise Israeli air campaign. Israel claims the strikes are aimed at preventing Iran from developing nuclear weapons—an accusation Iran has consistently denied.
The situation intensified further when Iran announced on Wednesday that it had launched hypersonic missiles at Israel in retaliation, marking the latest escalation in the long-standing hostilities between the two nations.
While former U.S. President Donald Trump has publicly stated that the United States is not involved in Israel’s bombing campaign, he simultaneously issued a stern warning to Iran, suggesting that his patience is nearing its limit. Bahreini dismissed Trump’s comments as “completely unwarranted” and “hostile,” stressing that Tehran is monitoring Washington’s actions closely.
“There is a red line,” Bahreini warned. “Once that line is crossed, Iran will respond—and we will do so strongly. Any aggression, whether from Israel or the United States, will be met with firm resistance.”
He further clarified that Iran had already conveyed a warning to the U.S., making it clear that Tehran would not remain passive if it determines Washington’s involvement in the attacks.
In a passionate appeal, Bahreini also criticized Western and European governments for what he described as their silence—or worse, justification—of Israeli aggression. “Not only are they failing to condemn the attacks, but they are also attempting to legitimize them,” he said.
Addressing the possibility of renewing diplomatic negotiations with the United States over Iran’s nuclear program, Bahreini dismissed the idea outright. “At this moment, we are not considering any scenario other than defending ourselves,” he said.
Later, in remarks to the UN Human Rights Council, Bahreini extended his criticism to Israel’s international allies, warning: “Those who support the Israeli regime—especially the United States—must understand that their support directly aligns them with violations of international humanitarian and human rights laws.”
The ambassador’s statements reflect the heightened tensions and potential for broader conflict, as Iran signals a hardened stance in the face of what it views as coordinated aggression from its regional and global adversaries.