TEHRAN – In a phone call with British Foreign Secretary David Lammy on Sunday, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi asserted that Iran considers the defense of its sovereignty an inherent and legal right, a stance he reinforced as he discussed the “unlawful” Israeli attacks against the country.

Araghchi emphasized that Iran will unreservedly defend its territorial integrity against any acts of aggression.

During the conversation, Araghchi outlined the Islamic Republic’s firm position regarding the unlawful Israeli actions targeting defense sites in Tehran, Khuzestan, and Ilam Provinces. 

Iran’s Air Defense Force successfully intercepted and neutralized these assaults, according to Iranian authorities. Araghchi reaffirmed Iran’s commitment to an appropriate response within the boundaries of international law and the United Nations Charter, promising retaliation that aligns with globally accepted norms.

The Iranian diplomat called on the international community, particularly the United Nations, to swiftly and decisively condemn the aggression, pointing out at Israel’s actions as an extension of its broader campaign in Gaza and Lebanon. 

Araghchi urged immediate international measures to hold Israeli leadership accountable, advocating for an end to Israel’s “war of genocide” in Gaza and escalating violence in Lebanon. He highlighted that the ongoing aggression has taken the lives of tens of thousands since the latest offensive began in October.

= Iran to work with regional partners to address humanitarian crisis in Gaza, Lebanon

In a separate call, Araghchi spoke with Omani Foreign Minister Seyyed Badr Albusaidi, who also condemned Israel’s recent actions. 

Albusaidi stated that the Israeli attacks are clear violations of Iran’s sovereignty and international law. He stressed the importance of collective regional efforts to curb the growing instability and prevent the spread of insecurity across West Asia. 

Albusaidi echoed calls for urgent international intervention to stop the bloodshed in Gaza and Lebanon.

Araghchi expressed gratitude for Oman’s supportive stance and confirmed that Iran would not overlook the aggression. He pledged that Iran would continue working alongside regional partners like Oman to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and Lebanon and protect the rights of displaced populations.

Following the Iranian-Omani discussions, Oman’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement condemning the Israeli attack, calling it a severe breach of Iran’s national sovereignty.