TEHRAN – Nasser Kanaani, spokesperson for the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, has condemned the joint declaration made by the Prime Ministers of Australia and New Zealand regarding the ongoing crisis in Gaza for its selective coverage and disregard of realities on the ground.

"The call for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, protection of civilians, and swift humanitarian assistance is a global demand," Kanaani stated. "The international community must take practical and effective actions to ensure its realization and compel the Israeli regime to accept them."

Kanaani further emphasized that the joint statement exemplified the double standards of Australia and New Zealand concerning fundamental human rights and international law. He remarked, "Open and covert support for a regime that has been committing war crimes and genocide against innocent Palestinian citizens for over ten consecutive months means encouraging this regime to continue its horrific crimes."

Highlighting the escalating violence, Kanaani noted, "The crimes of the Israeli regime in Palestine are taking on new dimensions every day. Regional stability and security are threatened by dangerous behaviors that violate the UN Charter and international law."

He expressed concern that the statement from Australia and New Zealand represented a "true example of turning a blind eye to facts" and providing misleading information to the public. 

Kanaani pointed out the paralysis of the UN Security Council, which has failed to issue a single statement condemning Israeli actions, attributing this inaction to "unconditional American support for the Israeli regime." He added, "The unreasonable request from Australia and New Zealand to Iran disregards our inherent right to punish aggressors and create deterrence against the Israeli regime's adventures."

Concluding his remarks, Kanaani asserted that "the main source of threats to regional and international peace and security is the racist Zionist regime." He warned that Australia’s and New Zealand’s selective approach to international norms would not only fail to reduce tensions but would also further embolden destabilizing actions by Israel in the region.

After a meeting in Canberra on August 16, Anthony Albanese and Christopher Luxon called on Iran to refrain from what they called destabilizing actions in West Asia. The two have also asked Iran in the joint statement to cease threats of a military attack against the Israeli regime, which assassinated Hamas Leader Ismail Haniyeh on Iranian soil last month. The statement does not make any mention of Israel and the crimes it has committed since October 7.