On June 22, 2025, Pakistan, Russia, and China proposed a UN Security Council (UNSC) resolution demanding an immediate ceasefire in the Middle East, condemning U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran’s nuclear sites.
During an emergency session of the UN Security Council (UNSC) requested by Iran, Pakistan’s Ambassador Asim Iftikhar, along with representatives from China and Russia, circulated a draft resolution calling for an “immediate and unconditional ceasefire.” This resolution condemns the attacks on Iran’s nuclear facilities at Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan, and emphasises the need for civilian protection and diplomacy.
The U.S. strikes on June 21, which President Donald Trump described as a “success” in efforts to thwart Iran’s alleged nuclear weapons program, have escalated Israel’s military campaign that began on June 13. A vote on the resolution is pending, with comments due by the evening of June 23. However, a U.S. veto is likely.
Read: IAEA Reports No Radiation Leak in Iran, Offers Mediation After U.S. Strikes
Iftikhar labelled the strikes a “dangerous precedent,” supporting Iran’s self-defence rights under Article 51 of the UN Charter. He warned of “catastrophic consequences” if tensions spiral, per Geo News [6]. China’s Fu Cong stressed diplomacy, stating, “Peace cannot be achieved by force,” per France24 [7]. Russia’s Vassily Nebenzia compared U.S. claims to 2003 Iraq falsehoods. UN Secretary-General António Guterres called the strikes a “perilous turn,” urging negotiations.
Iran’s Ambassador Amir Saeid Iravani accused the U.S. and Israel of sabotaging diplomacy, rejecting nuclear talks during attacks. Iran’s parliament considered blocking the Strait of Hormuz, risking global trade. The conflict, with 865 deaths in Iran and 24 in Israel, threatens escalation.
