New york: Iran's Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Amir Saeid Iravani, has accused the United States of engaging in 'state-sponsored piracy and terrorism' following the seizure of Iranian commercial vessels, emphasizing Iran's right to counter these actions.

According to Islamic Republic News Agency, Iravani expressed these concerns in a letter addressed to the UN Secretary-General and the Security Council president. The letter comes amid ongoing tensions, as the US continues its naval blockade on Iran, seizing additional commercial vessels.

In the letter, Iravani specifically referenced the recent seizure of the vessels M/T Majestic and M/T Tifani. He highlighted a statement by a US Attorney that allegedly confirmed the seizure and the removal of 3.8 million barrels of Iranian oil, describing the actions as a blatant example of US lawlessness and a violation of the UN Charter, particularly Article 2(4).

Iravani argued that the US actions align with the definition of aggression under the United Nations General Assembly Resolution 3314 (1974). According to him, such aggression includes attacks on a state's marine fleet by another state's armed forces, which he asserted the US has done through its military operations against Iranian vessels conducting legitimate commerce.

The Iranian envoy stated that these actions not only breach international maritime law but also threaten maritime safety and regional stability. He condemned the invocation of domestic laws by the US to justify these actions, labeling them unlawful coercion and interference in international commerce.

Iravani called for the UN Security Council to condemn these acts, demand the immediate cessation of illegal actions by the US, and take measures to prevent future occurrences. He urged the Council to reject unilateral coercive measures that contradict the UN Charter and international law and advocated for the release of all seized vessels and cargo.

Iran maintains that it reserves the right to respond to the US's actions in accordance with international law, emphasizing the severe implications for international navigation, safety, and regional peace.