Iran serious about resolute defense of its sovereignty against ongoing aggression, FM tells Lavrov

Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi asserts that Iran remains serious about the resolute defense of its national sovereignty amid continued unprovoked American-Israeli aggression.

The top diplomat made the remarks during a telephone conversation with his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov on Friday.

“The principled views of the Islamic Republic in affirmation of defense of Iran’s national rights and interests are completely clear,” Araghchi stated.
He noted the continuation of the unlawful aggression against various sites, including civilian centers such as schools, hospitals, historical and cultural sites, and residential areas.

The Iranian foreign minister, meanwhile, addressed the situation currently governing the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran has closed to the adversaries and those aiding them in the aggression, calling insecurity affecting the strategic waterway the direct results of Washington’s and Tel Aviv’s atrocities.

“Preventing the passage of vessels belonging to the aggressors and their allies is Iran’s legal right as a coastal state,” he said.
“The competent authorities of the Islamic Republic, fully aware of their responsibilities for ensuring the security and safety of navigation in this waterway, have taken the necessary measures to defend Iran’s sovereignty and national security, and to prevent the aggressors from exploiting this waterway to carry out hostile actions against Iran,” Araghchi added.

He, however, clarified that passage of vessels belonging to other countries through the Strait of Hormuz would continue to take place in coordination with the relevant authorities.

Russia reiterates support for regional stability

For his part, Lavrov reiterated Moscow’s condemnation of the aggression and stressed the need to respect the fundamental principles of the United Nations Charter as far as regional and international security and stability was concerned.

He expressed his country’s readiness to continue consultations aimed at reducing tensions and restoring security and stability in the region.