Israel Warns Iran: U.N. Envoy Danon Says Israel Will "Hit Them Hard" If Attacked Again

Israeli Ambassador to the United Nations Danny Danon told Newsmax that Israel would respond decisively if Iran attacks again, even as Jerusalem coordinates closely with Washington to curb Tehran's nuclear program, ballistic missile capabilities and support for proxy forces.

Danon Emphasizes U.S.-Israel Coordination

On Newsmax's "Sunday Report," Danon underscored the partnership with the United States. "We do coordinate our efforts with the U.S. We appreciate the partnership," he said. "The U.S. is a senior partner, and we respect the leadership of President [Donald] Trump. But if Iran will make the mistake and attack Israel again, we will not wait for anyone. We will retaliate, and we will hit them hard."

Three Goals for Any Iran Policy

Danon outlined three objectives he said must be achieved whether by diplomacy, sanctions or military action: ensure Iran does not attain nuclear capabilities, stop continued ballistic-missile threats, and end funding for proxy groups across the region.

"Whether through negotiations or economic sanctions or military efforts, we have to achieve three goals: make sure they don't have nuclear capabilities, make sure they don't continue with the ballistic missile threats, and that they stop funding the proxies," Danon said.

Regional And Global Consequences

He warned that Iran's activities are affecting more than Israel, pointing to disruptions in vital shipping lanes such as the Strait of Hormuz and Bab al-Mandab. "They are spending billions on proxies, and they are hurting everyone, not only Israel but the entire world," Danon said, noting economic implications for global trade.

Netanyahu's Short U.N. Visit

Danon confirmed that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu intends to travel to New York for a brief appearance at the U.N. General Assembly despite a packed schedule, the Jewish High Holidays and Israel's election campaign. The trip is expected to last roughly 24 hours so Netanyahu can deliver his General Assembly address.

Clash With New York Mayor

Danon criticized New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani for calling Netanyahu a "war criminal" and pursuing the idea of local enforcement of an International Criminal Court warrant — a move the mayor later acknowledged was beyond the city's jurisdiction. Danon also accused Mamdani of praising Hamas and engaging with the Iranian U.N. delegation through a city representative, and urged local officials to focus on municipal responsibilities rather than foreign policy.

U.S.-Israel Partnership And Regional Threats

Defending the U.S.-Israel relationship amid debate in the United States, Danon said the two countries share values, goals and security interests. He warned that missiles and drones used in attacks on the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Israel could eventually threaten the U.S., and said cooperative defense efforts protect Western interests.

On Celebrities And Public Opinion

Asked about anti-Israel activism among entertainers, Danon said many celebrities lack detailed knowledge of the conflict and of events such as the Oct. 7 attacks. "Most cases... it's people who have zero knowledge, but they just want to be involved in a cause, and unfortunately, they pick the one cause," he said, adding that supporting militants is morally equivalent to supporting terrorists.

Context: Danon's remarks come ahead of the U.N. General Assembly, where tensions with Iran are expected to be a central topic for world leaders.