Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi declared that Iran’s recent missile strikes on Israel constituted acts of self-defense and would cease if Israel discontinues its aggressive actions. Speaking to ambassadors and representatives of foreign missions in Tehran on Sunday, Araqchi underscored that Iran has no desire for the ongoing conflict to escalate across the region.
Araqchi issued a stern warning that Israeli actions risk igniting a broader war in the Persian Gulf—a volatile and intricate region where any escalation could trigger global repercussions. He characterized Israel’s recent airstrikes on Iranian territory as “unprecedented” and denounced them as a “strategic mistake” intended to expand the conflict.
He revealed that critical Iranian targets struck by Israel included the Natanz nuclear facility and residential areas in Tehran and other cities. Araqchi further accused Israel of previously assassinating Iranian academics, nuclear scientists, and military commanders within their homes.
“These attacks occurred even as Iran was engaged in dialogue with the United States, with the sixth round of negotiations scheduled for today,” he stated, condemning Israel for crossing new red lines amidst international silence.
Araqchi criticized the U.N. Security Council and European nations for their failure to condemn the assault on Iran’s nuclear facilities, asserting that their indifference undermines international law. “Instead of condemning Israel, some so-called civilized nations blamed Iran,” he noted.
Defending Iran’s retaliatory missile strikes, Araqchi affirmed, “Our response adhered to the principle of self-defense. We initially targeted only military sites, but Israel’s attacks on economic infrastructure compelled us to respond in kind, including strikes on Israeli refineries.”
Araqchi extended gratitude to diplomats and countries that condemned Israeli aggression and expressed solidarity with Iran. He urged the international community to act decisively to halt further Israeli attacks and avert a wider regional conflict.
