Tehran: Ukraine's recent attack on an Iranian vessel, deemed illegal and a violation of the UN Charter, has been labeled as dangerous adventurism by Esmaeil Baqaei, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Baqaei asserted that this action will not go unanswered, emphasizing the severity of the incident during his weekly press conference.
According to Islamic Republic News Agency, the attack resulted in the martyrdom and injury of several Iranian citizens. In response, diplomatic measures were taken, including the summoning of the Ukrainian charg© d'affaires and a call from the Iranian Foreign Minister to Kaja Kallas, Vice-President of the European Commission. Baqaei criticized the Ukrainian president's actions as reminiscent of anarchists from the eve of World War I, warning that such theatrical stunts would have unpredictable regional repercussions.
Baqaei reiterated Tehran's stance on the Ukraine-Russia conflict, emphasizing that Iran is not involved and condemning Ukraine's move as a clear violation of international law. He highlighted the concerns of Caspian Sea littoral states and called for accountability from those supporting the Ukrainian regime.
The discussion also touched on US involvement in the region. Baqaei criticized the US for attempting to manage the conflict and continued transfer of weaponry, asserting that Iran's national interests are prioritized through transparent decision-making processes. He insisted that Iran will not allow the US to dictate the timing of war and peace, emphasizing the importance of diplomacy when it aligns with national interests.
Baqaei addressed a joint statement by the US and Persian Gulf Cooperation Council (PGCC) countries, denouncing it as highly destructive. He expressed Iran's desire for good relations with regional neighbors while criticizing their participation in military aggression against Iran. Baqaei emphasized the deep ties between Iran and nations on the Persian Gulf's southern shores, advocating for mutual trust and cooperation.
In response to potential US support for Saudi Arabia's civilian nuclear program, Baqaei pointed out the perceived contradictions in US policy, emphasizing Iran's right to peaceful nuclear energy under the Non-Proliferation Treaty. The US's actions were described as inconsistent with international law, leaving decisions to public opinion.
Baqaei also criticized Bulgaria's decision to host US Air Force tankers, labeling it an unjustifiable action that aligns the country with US and Zionist aggression against Iran. He called for accountability from Bulgarian decision-makers and highlighted opposition from the Bulgarian populace and parliamentarians.
Regarding Kuwait, Baqaei expressed skepticism over the Kuwaiti ambassador's statements about not participating in the war against Iran, citing the continuous use of Kuwaiti bases by US forces. He also criticized the UK for allowing US military operations against Iran from British soil, calling the decision a violation of international law and a complicity in aggression.
Baqaei concluded by addressing the situation in the Strait of Hormuz, cautioning against British intervention and urging a focus on the root causes of regional tensions, specifically the US-Israeli aggression against Iran.