Russia and China Defend
Russia and China Defend: In a dramatic development, Russia and China strongly criticized recent military strikes carried out by the United States and Israel on Iran’s nuclear facilities, declaring them violations of international law and expressing firm support for Tehran at the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Board of Governors (BoG).
What Happened?
The IAEA Board of Governors held an urgent session after Israel launched airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites. This meeting was called at the request of Russia.
These nuclear sites in Iran—such as Natanz, Fordow, and Isfahan—are under the supervision of the IAEA, meaning they are part of peaceful nuclear activities.
According to IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi, the sites were hit with powerful munitions, which likely caused serious underground damage.
In response, Russia, China, and several other countries called for de-escalation, diplomacy, and a return to peaceful negotiations.
Russia’s Reaction
The Russian Foreign Ministry condemned Israel’s strikes as “unprovoked” and in breach of the United Nations Charter.
Russia argued that military force is not a viable way to deal with Iran’s nuclear program — diplomacy must come first.
Russian officials further warned that such attacks could destabilize the region, urging restraint from all sides.
Moscow also joined China (and Pakistan) in proposing a UN Security Council resolution calling for an “immediate and unconditional ceasefire,” respect for international law, and dialogue.
China’s Response
At the IAEA Board of Governors meeting, China’s envoy, Li Song, denounced the Israeli attack. He said armed attacks on peaceful nuclear facilities are unacceptable.
China stated that the U.S. strikes on Iranian nuclear sites violate international law and undermine Iran’s sovereignty and security.
According to China, these attacks also damage the global non-proliferation regime, the system that tries to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons.
Chinese diplomats called for a ceasefire, protection of civilians, and a return to political and diplomatic solutions.
China also expressed willingness to work with other countries through the U.N. and IAEA to restore peace and stability in the Middle East.
Support for Iran at the IAEA
Both Russia and China backed Iran at the IAEA Board of Governors, condemning the attacks on nuclear facilities.
Eleven IAEA BoG member countries (including Russia, China, Iran, Pakistan, and others) issued a joint statement calling the Israeli strikes a “flagrant violation” of international law, the U.N. Charter, and the IAEA Statute.
These countries urged the IAEA and the UN Security Council to take strong action to prevent such military attacks in the future.
Why This Matters
- International Law and Sovereignty
Russia and China frame the strikes as a dangerous precedent — attacking nuclear installations undermines sovereignty, peace, and the non-proliferation system.
- IAEA’s Role Under Threat
The IAEA is supposed to be a neutral body that ensures nuclear energy is used peacefully. When its facilities are attacked, it weakens trust in the system.
The IAEA Director General called for a return to inspections and said a ceasefire is necessary to guarantee safety for inspectors.
- Diplomacy vs. Military Force
Moscow and Beijing argue that diplomatic talks, not bombs, should resolve nuclear tensions.
They stress that any solution must protect regional stability and avoid further escalation.
- Mediation Role
Iran is reportedly open to a Russian-Chinese mediation plan to resume cooperation with the IAEA.
Challenges Ahead
Tehran has already announced it may suspend cooperation with the IAEA.
There is growing skepticism in Iran about the IAEA’s impartiality, with Iranian leaders claiming political bias in the agency.
Diplomacy is under huge strain. While Russia and China call for peace, Iran’s parliament is also pushing for stronger stances and might delay or limit inspections.
For any negotiation to move forward, safety guarantees for Iran’s nuclear facilities will be critical.
Conclusion
Russia and China’s unified stance against the U.S. and Israeli attacks marks a strong diplomatic push in favor of Iran. By backing Tehran at the IAEA Board of Governors, they are defending not just Iran’s nuclear rights but also the credibility of the global nuclear non-proliferation system. Their calls for dialogue, ceasefire, and respect for international law underline a clear message: military attacks are not the solution — diplomacy must lead the way.