Tehran condemns Israeli strikes in Gaza and Lebanon, calls for international action

October 6, 2024 - 20:11

TEHRAN – Ismail Baqaei, spokesperson for Iran’s Foreign Ministry, has strongly condemned the Israeli regime’s ongoing military actions in Gaza and Lebanon.

Highlighting the killing of civilians, Baqaei cited a recent attack on a mosque in Deir al-Balah in the Gaza Strip, which was sheltering displaced refugees, as well as airstrikes on residential buildings in the Dahieh neighborhood of Beirut. He described these actions as clear violations of international law.

Baqaei criticized the use of American-supplied weapons in these attacks on holy sites, schools, mosques, and medical facilities, likening the strikes to atrocities committed by Daesh. "The killing of civilians and destruction of civilian infrastructure," he noted, "are ingrained in the ideology of Zionism and extremism."

According to Baqaei, the Israeli policy of mass murder and terror against the Palestinian people, many of whom have been displaced and forced to seek refuge in places of worship and medical centers, constitutes clear war crimes and crimes against humanity. 

He called for urgent international intervention, urging the global community to hold Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other leaders of the regime accountable. He warned that Netanyahu, whom he referred to as the "Hitler of our time," is leading Israel into dangerous territory.

Baqaei expressed concern over the destabilizing effects of Israel’s policies, emphasizing the threat they pose to both regional and international peace. He warned that inaction in response to these crimes would have severe and far-reaching consequences, affecting not just the immediate region but also the wider global community.

The Iranian spokesperson urged all countries, particularly Muslim nations, to take decisive action. He stressed the need for immediate humanitarian aid for the people of Gaza and Lebanon, who have been displaced by the ongoing conflict. Baqaei encouraged nations to stand united against Israel's policies of terror and destabilization.

Iran condemns U.S.-UK airstrikes in Yemen, demands accountability

Baqaei also condemned the recent joint airstrikes by the United States and the United Kingdom on Yemen, calling them blatant violations of the UN Charter and international law. 

He declared that such military actions by Western powers are unacceptable and must be held accountable on the international stage.

“These repeated military aggressions by the U.S. and the UK in Yemen constitute clear breaches of the UN Charter and fundamental international principles,” Baqaei stated. He argued that these attacks, which target civilian infrastructure and populated areas, further destabilize the region.

In his remarks, Baqaei also blamed Israel for ongoing regional instability, asserting that its policies of occupation and expansionism are a primary source of insecurity in West Asia. He noted that Israeli aggression in Lebanon and Gaza must end for peace to be restored in the region. Baqaei's comments come amidst increased tensions and escalating violence in Gaza, where Israeli military operations have led to significant civilian casualties.

Iran expresses solidarity with Bosnia after deadly floods

In a separate development, the Iranian government has expressed its deep condolences to Bosnia and Herzegovina following devastating floods caused by heavy rains. 

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei conveyed Iran's solidarity with the Bosnian people, particularly those who have lost loved ones or sustained injuries in the disaster.

“We were deeply saddened by the severe damage caused by the recent floods in Bosnia and Herzegovina,” Baqaei wrote. He reaffirmed Iran’s commitment to supporting Bosnia during this difficult time, offering humanitarian assistance and solidarity as the nation works to recover from the catastrophe.