After Israel’s air and ground strikes on Iran, the UN Security Council quickly organized and held an emergency meeting on June 13, 2025. Israel’s coordinated attack struck more than 100 sites in Iran, including military sites and nuclear facilities.
The operation has been revealed to be called “Rising Lion” and is a significant escalation between Israel and Iran. Many are worried about the immediate repercussions, which could result in regional war and draw a lot of international concern.
Rising Lion
Operation Rising Lion was a coordinated effort to target some of the most important Iranian sites, including nuclear sites, missile factories, and air defense systems. The strikes came without warning, and vital military personnel were killed, including IRGC chief Hossein Salami and Armed Forces Chief of Staff Mohammad Bagheri.
Israeli representatives have justified the strike, stating that it was a preemptive one to stop Iran from developing nuclear weapons. It was believed that the country was close to creating a nuclear weapon.
Iran’s Response
Just hours after the targeted strikes, Iran retaliated with a counterattack of their own, launching over 100 drones and missiles. Most of these were destroyed by Israel’s defense systems. However, Iran warned that it could do more if the nation was further provoked.
The foreign minister of Iran labeled the strikes as “state terrorism” and said that they directly overstepped international law. The retaliation was justified under Article 51 of the UN Charter, which says nations have a right to retaliate in self-defense.
Impact On Civilians And Buildings
Israel’s coordinated strike caused a lot of damage in Tehran and other cities, causing damage to public infrastructure and residential complexes where military officers lived. Natanz nuclear facility was a notable asset that was targeted and destroyed, while Isfahan’s uranium conversion plant sustained major damage.
There have been many civilian casualties reported, although exact numbers are not yet available. Israel, anticipating a counterattack, activated emergency measures and warning sirens.
Reactions From Other Countries
The targeted strikes and retaliation were met with contention by several nations. Many countries, including the United States and several European nations, support the preemptive strike from Israel and see it as an act of self-defense but would rather the nation show restraint. The President of the United States, Donald Trump, has shown support for Israel’s actions and asked Iran to negotiate.
Countries like Russia, China, and many Middle Eastern nations condemn Israel’s actions, stating that they broke international law. The UN Secretary-General and EU want only de-escalation, as more conflict could affect entire regions.
Self-Defense or Aggression?
Israel’s operation is a highly controversial one, with many standing in support and others condemning the nation. Israel’s reasoning for Rising Lion is clear: preemptive measures to stop an imminent nuclear threat. However, the country did not notify the UN under Article 51.
Iran and supporting countries call it an act of aggression that violates international law. Both countries are calling on Article 51 and pointing the blame at the other.
Years Of Escalation
The current escalation comes from years of tension and conflict between the two nations. The Israel-Hamas war kickstarted several confrontations since 2023, as Iran’s “axis of resistance” has fought with Israel in multiple places, including Lebanon, Syria, and Iraq.
These conflicts have set the stage for the escalation that happened on June 13, 2025. As both nations keep increasing their military operations, resolution through de-escalation proves to be challenging.
Nuclear Risks
While both the EU and the UN have repeatedly told Iran that the nation is prohibited from acquiring nuclear weapons, attacks on nuclear facilities from foreign countries like Israel could prove disastrous. A nuclear breach after a strike could be catastrophic for the region and its surroundings.
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has already shown concerns over sites like Natanz.
The UN Steps In
The UN Security Council knows that it has to make a move and step in, but the appropriate action is hotly debated. Some members of the council want Israel to be held accountable for the strikes, while others cite that Iran must be kept away from being able to make nuclear weapons.
Both sides have pleaded to show restraint and not violate any international law going forward.
The Future
De-escalation seems difficult when both nations are threatening further action. Iran has used Oman and Qatar as mediators and has implied future nuclear discussions with the United States, but trust is hard to come by at a time like this.
Israel has been open about what will happen if Iran tries to become a nuclear-armed nation again. Calls for de-escalation may not be enough to stop these nations from retaliating and starting a vicious cycle. Everyone is watching and waiting as the future of conflict becomes uncertain.
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