Geneva, June 18 (EFE).— Iran will not abandon its uranium enrichment program despite Israeli strikes, Tehran’s ambassador to the UN in Geneva said Wednesday, warning of serious cross-border consequences if attacks continue.
Ambassador Ali Bahreini insisted the atomic program is strictly for peaceful purposes and emphasized Iran’s self-reliance. “History has taught us not to depend on others,” he said. “Even during COVID, no one gave us vaccines.”
Asked if Israeli attacks had disrupted operations, he said Iran’s nuclear research remains on track.
“Our scientists continue their work as planned,” he said, denying reports of significant damage to the Natanz facility. “Thanks to precautionary measures, we have secured our sites and controlled the situation.”
He warned of the potential for radiation leaks that could harm neighboring countries and urged the international community to pressure Israel to stop targeting nuclear facilities. Most of the damage so far, he said, has hit civilian infrastructure.
Bahreini criticized Western nations, especially in Europe, for their “shameful” support of Israeli actions.
On the possibility of renewed nuclear talks with the US, he said any dialogue must begin with a halt to Israeli aggression and a shift in Washington’s approach. “Iran is a strong and civilized nation, not one to be coerced,” he said.
He warned that Iran would retaliate firmly if Israel continues its offensive, or if the US gets directly involved.
“We trust our military strength. Our forces will strike back at Israeli military centers. They target civilians. We act within international law,” he said.
Iran slams Trump’s surrender demand Bahreini also condemned President Donald Trump’s call for Iran’s “unconditional surrender,” calling it “irresponsible and hostile.”
He said any direct American involvement would provoke a strong Iranian response. “We take Trump’s threats seriously in our assessments,” he added.
Israel launched air strikes on Iran Friday, claiming it was nearing nuclear weapon capability. Iran says over 200 people, including civilians, have been killed in the attacks. Iranian missile strikes in Israel have killed 24.
While the US denies involvement, Trump suggested the assault followed Tehran’s failure to meet a nuclear deal deadline.
On Truth Social, he warned Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was “an easy target,” though he ruled out killing him, “at least not for now.”
“We don’t want missiles fired at civilians or American troops. Our patience is wearing thin,” Trump posted, later demanding Iran’s total surrender.
Trump made the remarks after leaving the G7 summit early to return to Washington for security briefings. EFE
is-sk