Blinken at UN: US does not want war with Iran, but will defend itself

(Patria) - The United States told the United Nations on Tuesday that it does not seek conflict with Iran, but Secretary of State Antony Blinken warned that Washington would act swiftly and decisively if Iran or its proxies attack U.S. personnel anywhere, Reuters reported.

Blinken spoke to the 15-member UN Security Council amid fears from the international community that the conflict between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip, which Iran supports, could spill over into a wider war, drawing in Lebanon's Hezbollah, also backed by Tehran.

"The United States does not seek conflict with Iran. We do not want this war to widen. But if Iran or its proxies attack U.S. personnel anywhere, make no mistake: we will defend our people, we will defend our security - swiftly and decisively," Blinken said.

The U.S. military is taking new steps to protect its troops in the Middle East as concerns grow over attacks by Iran-backed groups, officials told Reuters. The U.S. has also sent warships and aircraft to the region in an attempt to deter Iran and Iran-backed groups.

"We call on all member states to send a firm, united message to any state or non-state actor contemplating opening another front in this conflict against Israel or who might target Israel's partners, including the United States: don't. Do not pour fuel on the fire," Blinken said.