Rome: Presence of extra-regional forces and European inaction regarding the Zionist regime's actions remain the root causes of instability across West Asia, the Red Sea, and the Persian Gulf, Iran's ambassador to Italy stressed.

According to Islamic Republic News Agency, Mohammad Reza Sabouri emphasized to Italian media that recent developments in West Asia signal a structural shift in regional power dynamics and deterrence equations. The ambassador clarified that Iran originally accepted a ceasefire agreement on the condition of a total cessation of hostilities across the entire region, including Lebanon. However, he noted that continued violations by the Zionist regime, alongside US military strikes against Iranian vessels and ports in the Persian Gulf, forced Iran to launch a defensive response in accordance with Article 51 of the UN Charter.

Sabouri underscored Iran's historical role in safeguarding maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital transit point for 20% of the world's energy supply. The envoy asserted that a total return to regional security depends completely on halting military aggression and lifting naval blockades.

Regarding neighboring Persian Gulf states, Sabouri emphasized that Tehran views them as 'permanent neighbors,' affirming that despite recent regional tensions, Iran continues to maintain close communication with several countries in the Persian Gulf region.