A heated exchange unfolded Saturday at the United Nations Security Council as representatives from the United States and Iran sparred publicly following coordinated U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iranian military and leadership sites. The emergency meeting was convened after news broke of the operation, which earlier in the day resulted in the reported death of Iran’s longtime supreme leader.

Iran’s ambassador to the United Nations, Amir Saeid Iravani, warned the American delegation during the session, advising the U.S. representative “to be polite,” and suggesting it would be better “for yourself and the country you represent.” He accused Washington and Jerusalem of committing acts of aggression and claimed civilians were killed in the strikes.

U.S. Ambassador Mike Waltz responded by rejecting Tehran’s criticism, stating he would not “dignify this with another response.” He described Iran’s ruling authorities as a regime responsible for killing and imprisoning its own citizens and reiterated that the United States is acting to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon. Waltz also dismissed claims that the military action violated international law, asserting that Washington is taking lawful measures to protect national and regional security.

The session followed a call by Emmanuel Macron for urgent consultations amid concerns of broader instability. Macron warned of “grave consequences for international peace and security” if the confrontation deepens.

U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged restraint, cautioning that further escalation could result in widespread civilian harm and destabilize the region. He argued the strikes raise serious concerns under the U.N. Charter.

Israeli Ambassador Danny Danon defended the operation, telling council members that Israel is acting to stop extremism before it grows beyond control. He vowed that no radical regime armed with nuclear weapons or ballistic missiles would be permitted to threaten Israel or the broader international community.

The European Commission announced it will hold a special security session on Monday to assess the fallout as diplomatic tensions mount and the risk of further military confrontation remains high.