Iran: If the US attacks, we will respond in self-defense

A notable move has come from Iran in response to US President Donald Trump's threats of attack. Iran's Permanent Representative to the United Nations (UN), Amir Saeid Iravani, sent a letter to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, emphasizing that the US threats to use force against Iran are contrary to international law. Recalling Trump's remarks regarding the potential use of the Diego Garcia base for a possible military strike against Iran, Iravani warned, "These threats constitute a clear violation of the UN Charter and international law, and carry the risk of dragging the region into a new cycle of crisis and instability."

"THE CONSEQUENCES WOULD BE CATASTROPHIC"

Pointing out that the sensitive situation in the region and the military buildup by the US show that Trump's statements are not just rhetoric, Iravani stated, "The aforementioned statements point to the risk of a real military attack. Such an attack, the consequences of which could be catastrophic for the region, poses a serious threat to international peace and security."

IRAN REITERATES COMMITMENT TO DIPLOMATIC SOLUTION

Emphasizing that Iran remains fully committed to the purposes and principles of the UN and to a diplomatic solution, Iravani underscored that his country has participated in nuclear negotiations with the US government in a constructive, serious, and good-faith manner to resolve uncertainties regarding its peaceful nuclear program. Reminding that they expect a serious approach based on equality from the US as well, Iravani said, "Iran believes that a lasting and reasonable solution is entirely possible if the US also approaches these negotiations with the same seriousness and sincerity and respects the principles of the UN and the norms of international law."

"NORMALIZATION OF AGGRESSION MUST NOT BE ALLOWED"

Calling on the UN Security Council to fulfill its responsibility to maintain international peace and security and to take action against the US's unlawful threats to use force, Iravani warned, "The US must comply with its obligations, especially Article 2(4) of the UN Charter, and refrain from any action that could escalate tensions or lead to military conflict. Otherwise, the consequences for regional and international peace and security will be severe and far-reaching." Underlining that Guterres and the UN Security Council must act without delay, Iravani stated, "The normalization, legitimization, or acceptance of the threat of force and acts of aggression as a political tool must not be allowed. Otherwise, another sovereign state will similarly become a target."

"THE RESPONSIBILITY FOR ANY UNCONTROLLABLE CONSEQUENCES RESTS WITH THE US"

Reiterating that Iran is not seeking tension or war but is determined to defend itself, Iravani said, "In the event of a military attack, our country will respond decisively and proportionately, exercising its right to self-defense under Article 51 of the UN Charter. In such a case, all bases, facilities, and assets of enemy forces in the region will be legitimate targets for Iran's defense. The full responsibility for any unforeseen and uncontrollable consequences that may arise rests directly with the US." Iravani requested that the letter he sent be circulated as an official document to UN member states.

News Source: İHA