Iran Stands Firm on Sovereignty Emphasizes Dialogue Amid Global Power Pressures

Kharrazi Criticizes UN Weakness Affirms Iran’s Determination to Resist Coercion

Kamal Kharrazi head of Iran’s Strategic Council on Foreign Relations criticized the United Nations for losing its authority and being dominated by coercive powers while reaffirming Iran’s commitment to national independence self-reliance and resilience in the face of foreign aggression.

Kamal Kharrazi, head of Iran’s Strategic Council on Foreign Relations, criticized the United Nations for losing its authority and being dominated by coercive powers, while reaffirming Iran’s commitment to national independence, self-reliance, and resilience in the face of foreign aggression.

Speaking at the closing session of the “International Law Under Assault: Aggression and Self-Defense” conference on November 16, Kamal Kharrazi highlighted what he described as the decline of the United Nations, asserting that it has been weakened by powerful states and replaced by a system dominated by force rather than law.

Kharrazi criticized the UN for losing its authority, describing it as increasingly dominated by powerful states that prioritize force over law. Kharrazi specifically highlighted the approach of U.S. President Donald Trump as emblematic of this trend, reflecting a disregard for international norms.

He added that “the UN is in a very weak position, unable to stop major powers from making unilateral decisions,” and pointed to recent events in Gaza as proof of its declining authority: “In the recent Gaza conflict, the Secretary-General was openly disrespected, showing the UN’s diminished stature.” According to Kharrazi, “the organization has fallen from its former value and authority,” leaving global governance vulnerable to the will of powerful states.

Drawing parallels between Iran’s eight-year war with Iraq and the recent 12-day Israeli aggression, Kharrazi emphasized the country’s resilience, unity, and reliance on domestic capabilities. He noted that, despite limited support from international institutions during these crises, Iran successfully defended its sovereignty, relying on the skills and determination of its armed forces and citizens. “Iranians do not accept humiliation and resist external pressures,” he said, adding that the nation remains ready for dialogue and peace whenever genuine gestures of friendship are offered.

Kharrazi also stressed that Iran would never compromise its independence, contrasting its steadfastness with countries willing to trade sovereignty for convenience. “Our strategy is built on protecting independence and resisting foreign pressure,” he said. He credited Iran’s skilled forces for maintaining self-reliance in defense, including domestic development of weapons and missile systems, which continue to be a cornerstone of national security.

The senior diplomat also reflected on the historical misuse of international organizations by powerful states, noting that the UN has often failed to protect Iran in times of conflict. From the Iran-Iraq war to recent regional tensions, he stressed that the principle of law has too often been overshadowed by power politics. Nevertheless, Iran remains committed to constructive engagement and regional cooperation under terms that respect its sovereignty and strategic interests.

Concluding his speech, Kharrazi emphasized that Iran’s resilience and adherence to national principles have earned recognition even from its adversaries. He called for international respect for Iran’s right to self-determination, reiterating that the country will continue to defend its independence while remaining open to peaceful dialogue when genuine efforts for cooperation are made.