TEHRAN — Iran, Russia, and China on Thursday sharply criticized the United States during an emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council, condemning Washington’s conduct and statements amid the recent unrest in the Islamic Republic.

Iran’s Deputy Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Gholamhossein Darzi, used the session to rebuke the United States, saying Washington has resorted to unfounded allegations to exploit protests in Iran by turning the Council into “a scene for theater.” 

He labelled such actions as damaging to the credibility and integrity of the United Nations. 

Darzi reiterated Tehran’s position that peaceful demonstrations driven by economic hardship were turned into violent riots by foreign backed elements, resulting in damage to infrastructure and casualties among civilians and security personnel. He said these groups received operational and logistical support from external sources, including Washington and Israel’s intelligence services, according to Iranian authorities. 

The Iranian envoy also criticized the United States for resorting to “lies, distortions of facts, and deliberate disinformation” to mask its involvement in steering unrest toward violence. He recalled historical instances of U.S. hostility, including past interventions and confrontations with Tehran. He also warned that threats of force under the pretext of protecting protesters would violate the UN Charter and international law. 

Russia’s ambassador to the United Nations, Vasily Nebenzya, described U.S. rhetoric regarding Iran as “dangerous and irresponsible” and said external forces were exploiting the situation to undermine Iran’s sovereignty. 

Nebenzya emphasized Tehran’s commitment to protecting public order and its territorial integrity, and called on Washington to abandon escalatory actions and cease positioning itself as a global judge. 

China’s deputy permanent representative also spoke at the council, rejecting threats of force or interference in Iran’s internal affairs. Beijing expressed deep concern about the potential for broader regional conflict and urged all parties to exercise restraint to avoid a descent into what a “law of the jungle.” 

The meeting, requested by the United States, addressed demonstrations that began amid severe economic pressure, including high inflation and currency collapse. Washington’s delegation reiterated support for what it termed “the brave people of Iran” and said that “all options are on the table” in response to the unrest. 

As the Security Council grappled with the ongoing situation, calls for restraint, respect for sovereignty, and avoidance of further escalation were underscored by several members, even as disagreements over approach and narrative persisted.