TEHRAN – Iran's Foreign Minister, Hossein Amir Abdollahian, strongly condemned Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the armed forces of the Zionist regime for their actions against the innocent people of Gaza.

In a post on his X account on Thursday, he highlighted the increasing international demand for accountability and justice amid escalating tensions in the region.

Characterizing the behavior of the Zionists as abhorrent and repellent, Amir Abdollahian pointed out what he viewed as "animalistic actions," involving genocide and war crimes against the Palestinian population. Stressing that such behavior lacks justification or logic in the eyes of global public opinion, he wrote on his official account, "The world is now awaiting an immediate and decisive act to stop the Zionist regime’s killing machine."

Additionally, Amir Abdollahian expressed strong support for the courageous actions of the South African government against the apartheid regime. He specifically commended their efforts in addressing child killings and voiced support for their endeavors to take Israel before the International Court of Justice, citing the principles of the UN’s 1948 Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide.

Iran, Saudi Arabia support South Africa's ICJ genocide case against Israel 

In a recent telephone conversation with Faisal bin Farhan, the Foreign Minister of Saudi Arabia, Amir Abdollahian commended Saudi Arabia's initiative to convene a summit of Islamic and Arab leaders aimed at halting the conflict in Gaza and providing humanitarian aid. He emphasized the ongoing atrocities committed by Zionist forces in the Palestinian massacre, stating that despite the United States’ discussions on halting the conflict, there has been no real effort to stop the war and genocide in Gaza.

Both foreign ministers expressed support for South Africa's move to file a legal complaint against the Zionist regime in the International Court of Justice. Faisal bin Farhan also stated that efforts should persist to exert pressure to bring an end to the war against Gaza.

Moreover, in this conversation, a range of key topics centered around bilateral relations and the latest developments in Palestine were explored.

The Saudi Arabian Foreign Minister evaluated the expanding relations between the two countries, expressing anticipation for an official visit by Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi to Saudi Arabia. Addressing the agreement between both nations concerning Iranians' pilgrimage to Mecca for Hajj, Amir Abdollahian engaged in talks with his Saudi counterpart regarding existing delays and collaborative solutions.

Both foreign ministers conveyed greetings from their respective leaders, providing a positive assessment of ongoing negotiations and expressing hope for continued constructive dialogue.

Amir Abdollahian emphasizes key issues in discussion with Norwegian counterpart 

In another diplomatic exchange, Amir Abdollahian engaged in a telephone discussion with Espen Barth Eide, the Norwegian Minister of Foreign Affairs. The conversation encompassed various dimensions of bilateral relations, ongoing Zionist activities in Gaza and the West Bank, and the latest developments in Palestine.

Amir Abdollahian began by conveying New Year's greetings to the Norwegian government and people, emphasizing the paramount importance of maintaining a focus on the positive aspects of the bilateral relationship and preventing peripheral issues from overshadowing them.

Expressing optimism, he stated his belief that the ongoing negotiations between Tehran and Oslo would significantly contribute to expanding relations in areas of mutual benefit.

Turning attention to the dire situation in Gaza, Amir Abdollahian stated, "Genocide in Gaza and the West Bank must cease, and the siege must end immediately."

The Iranian foreign minister cautioned against the strategic mistake of the U.S. engaging in direct warfare against civilians, especially women and children, in Gaza. Emphasizing previous warnings that war is not a solution, he voiced concerns that the ongoing civilian massacre could escalate the conflict's scope, showcasing a deep understanding of the regional situation and unwavering support for Palestine.

Discussing the commitment of all parties to maritime security, Amir Abdollahian underscored Yemen's efforts in supporting the Palestinian people. He asserted, "Yemen is an integral part of the security of the West Asia region. Yemeni leaders emphasize maritime security and affirm that only ships intended for spreading war and sending weapons to occupied territories will be stopped."

The Norwegian Foreign Minister, in his part, stressed the immediate need for a ceasefire, the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, humanitarian aid to Gaza, and the initiation of a political process based on the formation of an independent Palestinian government. He welcomed Iran's constructive role in the region to reduce tensions.

He also emphasized the ongoing development of relations between the two countries, consistently being a focus in Oslo and officially announced by government authorities.

Both sides concurred on the importance of continued diplomatic contacts, consultations, and political discussions on matters of mutual interest between the two countries.

MAS