Tensions Surge as Leaders Exchange Stern Messages Following U.S. Strike on Iranian Nuclear Sites
Trump warned of a harsher U.S. response to any Iranian retaliation following the strike on Iran's nuclear sites. Iran's Deputy FM Araghchi condemned the attack as a violation of international law, vowing to defend its sovereignty. Tensions rise as calls grow for urgent diplomatic intervention.
By Ahora Qadi
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – In the wake of a major U.S. military strike on Iranian nuclear facilities, U.S. President Donald J. Trump issued a forceful warning on his Truth Social platform early Sunday, pledging a far more devastating response to any Iranian retaliation.
“Any Retaliation By Iran Against The United States Of America Will Be Met With Force Far Greater Than What Was Witnessed Tonight,” Trump Declared In A Capitalized Post.
The statement comes hours after Washington confirmed it had carried out a targeted strike on key Iranian nuclear sites, including the fortified Fordow facility, a move that marked a dramatic escalation in the U.S.-Iran confrontation and drew swift condemnation from Tehran.
Iran: U.S. Committed ‘Grave Violation’ of International Law
Responding to the operation, Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi denounced the attack in a post on his official X account, accusing Washington of flouting international norms.
“The United States, a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, has committed a grave violation of the UN Charter, international law, and the NPT by attacking Iran's peaceful nuclear installations,” Araghchi wrote.
He described the early morning events as “outrageous” and warned of “everlasting consequences,” urging all UN member states to take heed of what he called “extremely dangerous, lawless and criminal behavior.”
Araghchi added that Iran “reserves all options to defend its sovereignty, interest, and people,” citing provisions of the UN Charter that allow for a legitimate self-defense response.
Diplomatic Fallout Amid Widening Conflict
The stark exchange underscores the rapidly deteriorating situation following the strike, with both sides hardening their positions. While the United States has framed the operation as a preventive action to halt Iran’s nuclear ambitions, Tehran maintains its program is strictly peaceful and now portrays itself as the victim of unlawful aggression.
As global concern mounts over the prospect of wider conflict, regional actors and international institutions face mounting pressure to intervene diplomatically to avoid further escalation.
