The Iranian Foreign Minister confirmed Abbas AraghjiIn a televised interview with the American CBS network, he said that his country reserves its full right to defend itself if it is exposed to any attack by the United States, stressing that this right is “guaranteed by international laws and customs.”
Araqchi’s statements came during an interview broadcast on an American network news program, where he was asked about the possibilities of military escalation between Tehran and Washington in light of the escalating tensions in the region.
He explained that “Iran does not seek war, but it will not hesitate to respond if confrontation is imposed on it,” adding that his country’s policy is based on “deterrence and legitimate defense, not initiating an attack.”
The Iranian minister indicated that his country considers any military action targeting its territory or interests “a clear violation of the United Nations Charter,” especially Article 51, which stipulates the right of states to self-defense if they are exposed to an armed attack.
He added that Tehran “informed international parties through diplomatic channels that it prefers political solutions, but is prepared for all scenarios.”
These statements come in the context of escalating tension between Iran and the United States against the backdrop of several issues, including the Iranian nuclear program, the American military presence in the region, in addition to the economic sanctions imposed on Tehran.
The US administration has repeatedly expressed its concern about Iran’s regional activities and its nuclear program, while Tehran asserts that its program is “purely peaceful.”
There was no immediate comment from the US State Department on Araqchi’s statements, but Washington usually affirms its commitment to “the security of its allies in the region” and to preventing Iran from possessing a nuclear weapon, according to previous official statements issued by the White House and the US State Department.
Observers believe that Araqchi’s statements reflect Tehran’s adherence to the rhetoric of deterrence in the face of Western pressure, while keeping the door open to the diplomatic path. Analysts point out that the next stage may witness intense political movements to contain any potential escalation, especially in light of the sensitive balances witnessed in the region.
It is noteworthy that Abbas Araghchi’s interview was broadcast on the American CBS network, according to what the channel reported on its official platforms, and excerpts from it were circulated by international and Iranian media, which re-shed light on the tense relations between the two countries.
