United States Ambassador to the United Nations Mike Waltz told the Security Council that Operation Epic Fury, authorized by President Donald Trump, is designed to dismantle Iran's missile capabilities, weaken its naval forces, and disrupt the systems used to arm proxy militias. He said the objective is also to ensure that Iran can never obtain a nuclear weapon.

Waltz emphasized that the operation is focused on security goals and does not include regime change, even though President Trump previously suggested that Iranians should take control of their government after the strikes.

Addressing the council during an emergency session on the Iran crisis, Waltz argued that no responsible nation can ignore what he described as persistent aggression and violence from Tehran. He said peace is maintained through strength rather than appeasement, warning that the cost of inaction would be greater than decisive measures.