Iran has proposed a dramatic increase in its military budget, targeting a 200% rise, according to Iranian government spokesperson Fatemeh Mohajerani.
Warned of Serious Consequences
This planned surge, announced on October 29, is part of a budget proposal submitted to parliament for approval, which reflects Iran’s response to heightened regional conflicts and rising tensions with Western nations, particularly the United States.
The budget proposal follows recent statements from U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, who issued a stern warning on October 28 regarding potential “serious consequences” should Iran engage in further aggression against Israel or U.S. forces in the Middle East, according to Ziare.
Thomas-Greenfield emphasized that the U.S. seeks to avoid an escalation but made it clear that self-defense measures remain an option. Her remarks came shortly after Israel conducted strikes on Iranian missile facilities on October 26, in response to Iran’s alleged missile attacks earlier this month.
Measured and Proportionate
Iran’s ambassador to the U.N., Amir Saied Iravani, defended Iran’s right to respond, accusing the U.S. of complicity in regional conflicts due to its military support for Israel. Iravani underscored Iran’s commitment to diplomacy but reiterated the nation’s right to respond to any acts of aggression.
Israel’s U.N. Ambassador Danny Danon called on the Security Council to impose “crippling sanctions” on Iran’s military and economic infrastructure, stating that Israel’s recent strikes were “measured and proportionate” and warning that further aggression from Iran would be met with swift retaliation.
In the same session, global representatives including China and Russia urged caution and restraint. China’s U.N.
Ambassador Fu Cong called for prioritizing the preservation of lives and conflict de-escalation, advocating for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.
Russia’s Vassily Nebenzia criticized the U.S. for enabling Israel’s aggressive stance, linking this to American diplomatic protection.
