Athens:Ali Akbar Velayati, a senior adviser on international affairs to the Leader of the Islamic Revolution, has addressed comments by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Velayati argued that Washington's issue is with Iran's robust and independent civilization rather than the Islamic Revolution itself.

According to Islamic Republic News Agency, Velayati highlighted a contradiction in Rubio's recent statements. He noted that while the resistance in ancient Greece is celebrated, the resistance of the Iranian nation is dismissed as a death cult.

Velayati criticized the US for applauding resistance when it serves their interests while undermining it when it pertains to others, suggesting such behavior is an attempt to justify dominance rather than a hallmark of civilization.

He further condemned the United States, citing its involvement in the tragedies of Hiroshima, Vietnam, Iraq, and Afghanistan. Velayati asserted that the US lacks the moral authority to lecture others, emphasizing that their problem lies with Iran's civilization. Rubio made his remarks during a speech in Athens, which included criticisms of Iran and its cultural heritage.