An unprecedented barrage of missiles and drones from Iran has tested Israel’s vaunted missile defense systems, highlighting evolving threats and the potential for escalation. While Israel’s successful interception showcases technological prowess, it also underscores the need for vigilance and strategic recalibration in the face of Iran’s increasingly direct tactics.
Russia has vetoed a United Nations resolution sponsored by the United States and Japan that called on all nations to prevent a dangerous nuclear arms race in outer space. The vote in the 15-member Security Council was 13 in favor, Russia opposed and China abstaining. US Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield said after the vote that Russian President Vladimir Putin has said Moscow has no intention of deploying nuclear weapons in space. “Today’s veto begs the question: Why? Why, if you are following the rules, would you not support a resolution that reaffirms them? What could you possibly be hiding,” she asked. “It’s baffling. And it’s a shame.” Russia’s UN Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia dismissed the resolution as “absolutely absurd and politicized,” and said it didn’t go far enough in banning all types of weapons in space. Russia and China proposed an amendment to the U.S.-Japan draft that would call on all countries, especially those with major space capabilities, “to prevent for all time the placement of weapons in outer space, and the threat of use of force in outer spaces.” The vote was 7 countries in favor, 7 against, and one abstention and the amendment was defeated because it failed to get the minimum 9 “yes” votes required for adoption.
Russia’s veto of a US-drafted UN Security Council resolution calling for countries to prevent an arms race in outer space has raised concerns among Western nations. The US accused Moscow of developing an anti-satellite nuclear weapon, while Russia denied the allegations and insisted on a ban on all weapons in space. Despite support from 13 council members, the resolution failed to pass due to Russia’s veto and China’s abstention.
