Iran vows to respond to Israeli actions amid ongoing conflict

September 30, 2024 - 22:43

TEHRAN – In a recent press briefing, Nasser Kanaani, the spokesman for Iran’s Foreign Ministry, asserted that Israel will face consequences for its actions, emphasizing that none of its "crimes" will go unanswered.

He made the remarks at his weekly press briefing in Tehran on Monday as he was asked about Iran’s reaction to the assassination of Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah, the longtime leader of the Lebanese resistance movement Hezbollah, in a massive airstrike on southern Beirut on Friday using American-supplied bunker-buster bombs.

Kanaani stated that Iran is committed to continuing its political and legal efforts while taking decisive measures in response to Israeli aggression. He highlighted the potential for Muslim nations to unite and exert pressure on Israel, asserting that the Palestinian cause warrants stronger support from the Islamic world.

He criticized the United Nations Security Council for its inaction, attributing its ineffectiveness to the United States' role in enabling Israeli actions. Kanaani noted that Israel's aggression extends beyond its borders, threatening stability throughout the region.

Amid escalating tensions, he reaffirmed Iran's commitment to supporting Palestine and ensuring regional peace, stating that diplomatic efforts have been initiated to halt Israel's military actions. He warned that Israel has not succeeded in its objectives during nearly a year of conflict in Gaza and will continue to fail in the future.

Kanaani emphasized Iran's resolve to oppose any acts that threaten its national interests and reiterated that the country will take necessary steps to defend its security and that of its allies. He condemned the U.S. for its support of Israeli strikes, labeling it complicit in the violence against Lebanese and Palestinian civilians.

Iran’s strategy, according to Kanaani, involves addressing the root causes of instability in the region while simultaneously seeking constructive dialogue with those open to resolving conflicts. He concluded by affirming Iran's commitment to support Lebanon and Palestine against Israeli aggression, insisting that the Zionist regime's actions must cease for peace to prevail.

Iran outlines conditions for ongoing talks with IAEA

The Iranian Foreign Ministry also laid out its conditions for continuing professional discussions with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). 

Kanani provided updates on recent diplomatic engagements, including talks about a planned visit from IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi to Tehran.

Kanaani highlighted a recent trip by Mohammad Eslami, the head of Iran’s Atomic Energy Organization (AEOI), to Vienna, where he reportedly engaged in positive discussions. Additionally, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi had constructive conversations with Grossi during the 79th United Nations General Assembly in New York.

The spokesperson emphasized that if the IAEA demonstrates a genuine commitment to addressing shared concerns within its professional framework, there is a strong possibility of continuing productive dialogue and resolving outstanding issues between Iran and the agency.