The United States prefers a diplomatic resolution to the conflict with Iran, but at the same time is "prepared to hold Iran accountable for its actions that challenge international peace and security." This was stated today by U.S. Deputy Representative to the United Nations Temmy Bruce, reports UNN citing CNN.
"We hope that Iran will choose to return to fulfilling its obligations and seriously engage in negotiations to reach a final agreement," Bruce said at a UN Security Council meeting. "While dialogue remains possible, we cannot negotiate while Iran refuses basic commitments — simple commitments, such as not firing on civilian targets."
This came after the U.S. repeatedly struck Iran this week following Tehran's shelling of several vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. U.S. President Donald Trump said the U.S. agreed to continue talks with Iran, but Washington informed Tehran that the ceasefire established by the Memorandum of Understanding between the two countries had ended.
Bruce said that over the past week, Iran "has taken actions that contradict the essence and spirit of the understanding established between our two countries." She called on the United Nations to "remain fully engaged" on the issue of Iran's nuclear program and reiterated that Tehran "has violated international law and the resolutions of this council."
"President Trump prefers peace, and we call on other members of the council to join us in supporting the tools of this body," Bruce said.
Other allies also expressed their support, with French representative Jérôme Bonnafont calling Iran's recent attacks in the Middle East "unacceptable."
"We will continue to work with all our partners to contribute to efforts aimed at achieving a lasting diplomatic solution that ensures Iran never acquires nuclear weapons," he said.