Iran has declared that all US and Israeli bases and assets in the Middle East would be treated as “legitimate targets” if it faces military aggression, Iran’s Ambassador to India Mohammad Fathali said on Saturday.
Speaking at the Iranian Culture Centre in New Delhi, Fathali referred to Iran’s right to self-defence under Article 51 of the United Nations Charter. He stated that, as a sovereign nation, Iran would take all necessary steps to safeguard its territorial integrity, independence, and the safety of its citizens.
“If we are attacked militarily, all bases and assets of the United States and the Zionist regime in the region will be considered legitimate targets,” the ambassador said at the Iranian Culture Centre in New Delhi.
He asserted that Iran’s armed forces are fully prepared to defend the country, just as they were ready for dialogue. “We exhausted every avenue to prevent war. Now, we will defend our homeland,” he declared.
The envoy highlighted that the alleged aggression occurred despite ongoing diplomatic engagement between Iran and the United States over the nuclear issue.
“Despite deep reservations stemming from past experiences, including the recent 12-day war, Iran persisted with negotiations to demonstrate our commitment to peace and to remove any pretext for conflict,” he stated.
“However, today’s coordinated action by the United States and the Zionist regime once again confirms their unreliability. It reveals their real aim: continued pressure, threats and direct military aggression to pursue illegitimate interests,” the envoy added.
Fathali also called on neighbouring Gulf countries to recognize the gravity of the situation and contribute to maintaining regional stability.
“We respect our neighbours and we seek stability in our region. We expect these countries to understand the current situation and to help prevent further escalation by putting pressure on the aggressors,” he emphasised.
