Iran Vows Continued "Legitimate Defense" Against Israeli Aggression
His remarks came during a meeting with foreign ambassadors residing in Tehran, responding to recent Israeli attacks.
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Araghchi highlighted the severity of the attacks, particularly the strike on an Iranian nuclear facility, which he deemed a "major violation" of international law and "forbidden under all circumstances." He expressed disappointment that the UN Security Council has remained indifferent to this breach.
Condemnation and Hypocrisy
The Foreign Minister thanked countries, especially those in the region, for condemning Israel's aggression, particularly the attack on the nuclear facility. However, he criticized some European nations that "claim civilization and adherence to international law" for condemning Iran instead of Israel for being attacked.
Retaliation and Rules of Engagement
Araghchi stated that Iran's military response is based on the principle of self-defense, a "legitimate right" for any country facing aggression. He confirmed that Iranian armed forces began their retaliatory actions two nights prior, with new dimensions witnessed last night, and that these actions will continue.
He clarified that Iran's missile strikes initially targeted military objectives in the occupied Palestinian territories. However, after Israel targeted economic sites such as the Tehran refinery and parts of Asaluyeh, Iran expanded its targets to include Israeli economic sites and refineries.
Escalation and Regional Stability
Araghchi warned that the attack on Asaluyeh was a "clear aggression" and a "very dangerous act," intended to drag the conflict into the Persian Gulf region. He emphasized that the Persian Gulf is a "very sensitive and complex region," and any military development there could involve the entire region and even the world. He urged the international community to act swiftly to stop these "crimes and aggression."
Nuclear Facility Attack and IAEA Response
Regarding the attack on the Natanz nuclear facility, Araghchi announced that he has requested an emergency meeting of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director-General, scheduled for Monday. He expressed hope for a "strong condemnation" of Israel by the IAEA Board of Governors for this "flagrant violation of international law."
He called on ambassadors whose countries are members of the IAEA Board of Governors to convey to their capitals Iran's expectation of a strong condemnation and even punishment for Israel, stating that this attack crossed "the last red line of international law."
US Involvement and Iranian Restraint
Araghchi asserted that Israel's aggression against Iran could not have occurred without "the agreement and support of the United States." He said to have "conclusive evidence" of US forces and bases in the region assisting Israeli military attacks, citing US President's own statements confirming support and the necessity of American equipment. Therefore, Iran considers the US a "partner in these attacks" and believes it must "accept its responsibility."
Despite this, Araghchi emphasized that Iran's retaliation has focused on targets within Israel, as Iran does not seek to expand the war to other countries or the region unless it is "imposed" upon them. He reiterated that Iran did not desire this war, as it was engaged in diplomatic efforts regarding its nuclear program. He stressed that Iran's defense is "completely legitimate" and will continue with authority, but if the aggression stops, Iran's reactions will naturally cease.
Nuclear Talks Interruption and Future Prospects
Araghchi revealed that the sixth round of nuclear negotiations was scheduled to take place today in Muscat. He reiterated Iran's confidence in the peaceful nature of its nuclear program and its willingness to demonstrate this to the world, as it did in the 2015 nuclear agreement.
He stated that Iran will not accept an agreement that seeks to deprive it of its nuclear rights. Based on this principle, Iran entered negotiations with the US, completing five rounds and preparing to present its proposal for a potential agreement in today's sixth round.
Araghchi concluded by stating that the US proposal in the last round had issues and was unacceptable to Iran. Iran had conveyed its views and prepared a counter-proposal for today's session, which they believed could "open the way for an agreement." He explicitly stated that Israel does not want any nuclear agreement, negotiations, or diplomacy, and its aggression against Iran amidst nuclear talks demonstrates its opposition to any form of negotiation.
