Iran Calls for UN Action Against US Following Drone Strikes
On Thursday, Iran’s Foreign Ministry urged the United Nations Security Council to take measures aimed at restraining the United States after limited drone-related actions. In retaliation, Tehran warned it could strike U.S. air bases.
This latest conflict erupted after the Pentagon reportedly executed strikes, which U.S. officials characterized as defensive, targeting missile sites in the Strait of Hormuz and vessels capable of deploying mines. Iran has been obstructing normal commercial traffic in this crucial waterway following the U.S. operation, dubbed Operation Epic Fury, which removed Ali Khamenei from power earlier this year. In an effort to maintain economic stability globally, the U.S. Navy has been intervening to prevent Iranian ships from navigating the Strait.
Operation Epic Fury is currently under an indefinite ceasefire, a tactic introduced by President Trump to promote discussions for a lasting peace agreement. The president has made it clear that he requires Iran to stop its uranium enrichment and other activities deemed inconsistent with peaceful uses in order to conclude the conflict. Iranian officials have countered by demanding the lifting of sanctions, unfreezing of assets, and some form of compensation for damages incurred during the conflict.
Despite the ongoing hostilities—evidence of which includes reports of gunfire—discussions seem to proceed. The Iranian Foreign Ministry is still advocating for UN intervention against the U.S.
Spokesman Esmail Bacaei criticized the U.S. for its actions in Bandar Abbas, labeling them as a serious breach of international law. The state-run Islamic Republic News Agency stated that Bacaei accused the UN Security Council of having a “legal obligation” to hold the U.S. accountable.
However, the report doesn’t detail what Iran expects from the Security Council concerning accountability. Although the Council can issue resolutions—often symbolic or sanctions— the U.S. holds a permanent seat and has veto power over such measures.
The Foreign Ministry’s statement followed U.S. military actions targeting four Iranian drones and a control facility in Bandar Abbas. An anonymous U.S. official confirmed this account. The Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC), designated a terrorist organization by the U.S., reported a “decisive” retaliation, claiming to have bombed a U.S. air base without disclosing its location or specifics.
“This response serves as a serious warning to those who oppose us,” the Revolutionary Guards remarked in a statement shared by pro-Iranian media. They also released a video showcasing unidentified individuals adorning missiles with messages rooted in jihadi sentiments.
According to NBC News, U.S. and Kuwaiti officials reported that an Iranian missile targeting a U.S. base in Kuwait was intercepted without causing damage.
U.S. officials indicated that bases in Kuwait were suspected targets, while Iran asserted its attack focused on a military facility involved in a recent airstrike against Bandar Abbas.
The situation mirrors previous incidents where U.S. Central Command disclosed strikes aimed at Iranian targets in Bandar Abbas for self-defense, intending to deter drone attacks and mine placements in the Strait. The Revolutionary Guards also claimed to have downed a U.S. drone, a claim that remains unconfirmed, but they contended it forced U.S. warplanes to exit the area. Furthermore, tensions could resurface, with the Revolutionary Guards warning of potential terrorist activities against the U.S. if attacks persist.
While both parties are still negotiating a peace agreement and are considering a ceasefire—although temporarily disrupted—reports from Washington indicated the Trump administration is nearing a potential agreement with Iran. Axios noted discussions could lead to a 60-day memorandum of understanding aimed at paving the way for a more comprehensive deal, focusing on the free movement of shipping in the Strait and Iran’s commitment to halt nuclear developments.
Moreover, the U.S. is reportedly open to discussing easing sanctions and facilitating humanitarian aid to Iran as part of the negotiation process.
