Esmaeil Baqaei, Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, issued a pointed criticism at the United Nations on its 80th anniversary by lashing out against its failure to adequately respond to Israel’s military actions against Iran earlier this year. Baqaei noted that due to American influence over its Security Council members, no condemnations was issued of this 12-day Israeli offensive that started on June 13, 2025 and included U.S. bombing of three major Iranian nuclear facilities during this offensive. IRNA English reports.
Iran Affirms Self-Defense in International Forum

Baqaei underscored Iran’s response to Israeli attacks was legitimately grounded under Article 51 of the UN Charter and expressed disappointment with UN’s lack of action, suggesting this failure reflected wider issues related to certain powers undermining foundational principles of UN. (IRNA English)
Concerns Over UN’s Effectiveness

Baqaei voiced concern over how the UN handled other international issues, such as Britain, France and Germany’s attempts to reinstate sanctions against Iran that were lifted under the 2015 nuclear agreement. These events, according to him, underscored the necessity of having an organization like the UN which genuinely represents nations’ rights while upholding justice. IRNA English
Baqaei Pleads for UN Reform
Baqaei advocated for reform within the UN that upholds international law impartially while responding swiftly and decisively to violations of sovereignty and peace, in his remarks at IRNA English World Summit 2019. IRNA English World Summit
Conclusion
Iran’s criticism of the UN response to Israeli aggression illustrates wider worries about its effectiveness in upholding international peace and security. With shifting power dynamics across nations, increasing advocacy exists for an equitable and responsive UN system capable of meeting 21st century challenges.