TEHRAN – Iran has firmly reiterated its "recognized right" to defend its national sovereignty and establish deterrence against Israel, stating that the country does not seek permission from any nation to exercise this right.

On Tuesday, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Nasser Kanaani responded sharply to a joint statement issued by the UK, France, and Germany, which urged Iran and its allies to "refrain from attacks" against Israel.

Kanaani criticized the three European nations for their failure to condemn Israel's actions, accusing them of "impudence" in demanding that Iran refrain from taking punitive measures against the regime that has repeatedly violated Iran's sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Kanaani described the Western countries' demands as politically illogical and contrary to international law. He argued that such positions effectively support and embolden the perpetrators of international crimes, including genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity. 

He underscored Iran's commitment to defending its national sovereignty and security while striving to establish lasting stability in the region. In what appeared to be a direct reference to Israel, Kanaani asserted that Iran is determined to counter the true source of insecurity and terrorism in West Asia.

The spokesman further stated that Iran will not seek anyone’s approval in exercising its recognized rights. He urged the Western nations to focus their efforts on confronting Israel’s aggressive actions and to stop the ongoing genocide against Palestinians in Gaza.

Kanaani also highlighted that the primary reason for the escalating Gaza crisis is the failure of international bodies, including the UN Security Council, to address Israel's brutal actions. He criticized the extensive political and military support provided by Western powers to Israel, arguing that this has only fueled the conflict.

The remarks follow the assassination of Ismail Haniyeh, the head of Hamas' political bureau, in Tehran by Israeli forces on July 31. This act of terrorism occurred during Israel's ongoing military campaign in Gaza, which has claimed nearly 40,000 Palestinian lives, primarily women and children, since October 7 of the previous year.

In response to Haniyeh's assassination, Leader of Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, vowed "harsh punishment" against Israel, emphasizing that Iran considers it a duty to avenge the blood of the Palestinian Resistance leader.