Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has declared that his country will continue to defend itself, despite claims from the US and Israel that Iran is engaged in an unlawful war. Araghchi made these statements during a speech at the United Nations Human Rights Council, asserting that Iran has been subject to an unprovoked and ruthless attack by its adversaries.
Iran’s foreign minister highlighted the fact that the US and Israel have launched multiple attacks on Iranian soil, targeting civilian populations and vital infrastructure. In his address, Araghchi stated that over 600 schools have been destroyed or damaged, while over 1,000 students and teachers have been killed or injured.
Araghchi also condemned the recent attack on a school in the southern Iranian city of Minab, labeling it a premeditated act that reflects serious human rights abuses. The Iranian foreign minister underscored that targeting schools is a war crime and a crime against humanity, requiring condemnation and accountability.
Tensions in the Middle East escalated further as various reports emerged of explosions and drone and missile attacks on different locations. Additionally, French media reported that the US has launched a third naval fleet to the region in preparation for war with Iran.
Meanwhile, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan arrived in Islamabad on a two-day visit. Organizers announced that protests against the Trump administration would be held in over 3,200 locations across 50 US states.
In related news, Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi stated that his country has not initiated any attacks, despite being targeted by the US and Israel. The US has reportedly intercepted 398 missiles, 15 cruise missiles, and 1,872 drones in the ongoing conflict.
The UAE announced that the Abu Dhabi branch of the Louvre Museum, which opened in 2017, is the only foreign branch of the famous museum. Additionally, a French channel reported that the US has launched a third naval fleet to the region in preparation for war with Iran.
Amidst the escalating tensions, Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi confirmed that foreign ministers from Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Egypt, and Pakistan would meet in Islamabad for talks.
In a separate development, a high-ranking Iranian official was quoted as saying that the country’s defense systems have successfully intercepted many US drones and missiles.
