Iran: military will respond decisively to any aggression

Iran: military will respond decisively to any aggression

Iran Warns of Decisive Military Response to U.S. Aggression, Citing Self-Defense Rights

Iran has reiterated its commitment to a "decisive and proportionate" military response if faced with aggression, according to a letter from its United Nations mission to Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and the UN Security Council presidency. The letter, obtained by Anadolu Agency, emphasizes Iran's inherent right of self-defense under Article 51 of the UN Charter and warns that U.S. military facilities in the region could become targets in the event of conflict.

The statement follows heightened tensions after U.S. President Donald Trump's February 18 social media remarks, which Iran described as an "explicit public threat of the use of force." The letter specifically references potential U.S. use of Diego Garcia and RAF Fairford base in England, asserting that such actions would escalate regional instability and pose a "grave threat to international peace and security." Iran's UN mission also urged the Security Council to act "without delay" to mitigate risks, stressing that the U.S. would bear "full and direct responsibility" for consequences of military escalation.

While Iran reaffirmed its opposition to war, stating it "neither seeks tension nor war," the letter underscored that "all bases, facilities, and assets of the hostile force in the region would constitute legitimate targets" in a defensive response. This aligns with earlier statements by Iran's foreign ministry, which warned of a "crushing" reaction to aggression, though specific military capabilities were not detailed in the provided materials.

The U.S. and Iran have engaged in diplomatic efforts, including nuclear negotiations, but recent rhetoric underscores fragile relations. For investors, the risk of miscalculation remains elevated, with potential impacts on oil markets, regional trade, and global financial stability. The UN's role in de-escalation will be critical as tensions persist.

According to Facebook post by Trey Yingst, Iran's response would be "crushing."
Anadolu Agency report, February 19, 2026.