Radio Cadena Agramonte emisiora de Camagüey
Tehran, Feb 20 - Iran's ambassador to the UN, Amir Saeed Iravani, warned that his country will respond with firmness and proportionality to any military attack, in exercise of its right to self-defense, Iranian media reported today.
All enemy bases in the region would be considered legitimate targets, the Persian diplomat stated in a letter sent to the UN Secretary-General, AntónioGuterres, and to the presidency of the Security Council, amidst US threats and the increase of Washington's military presence in the region.
In the message, Iravani argued that the repeated threats of use of force by the United States constitute a clear violation of the United Nations Charter and international law, and warned that they could drag the region towards a new crisis and chaos.
The diplomat pointed out that statements by US President Donald Trump "carry a real risk of attack," the consequences of which would be "catastrophic" for the region and would represent a serious threat to international peace and security.
Nevertheless, the Iranian representative reaffirmed Tehran's commitment to the principles of the UN and to a diplomatic solution to the dispute.
He considered that if Washington approaches the ongoing negotiations "with seriousness and honesty," and demonstrates respect for international law, it will be possible to reach a "lasting and balanced" solution.
Iravani urged the members of the Security Council and the Secretary-General to take measures to immediately halt the US threats of unlawful use of force.
In the document, he held the United States "fully and directly responsible for any unforeseen and uncontrollable consequences" arising from a possible escalation.
The day before, Trump declared that the course of action regarding Iran will be defined within 10 days and warned that, if an agreement is not reached, "bad things will happen." US media reported that the country's military would be prepared for a possible attack against Iran, although there is not yet a final decision. In parallel, Washington has reinforced its military deployment in the region, despite ongoing negotiations with Tehran.
The United States demands the total suspension of uranium enrichment and the removal of enriched material from Iranian territory, in addition to including in the agenda the missile program and Tehran's support for regional armed groups.
Iran has reiterated that it will only negotiate on its nuclear program, refuses to discuss other matters, and conditions any understanding on the lifting of Western economic sanctions.
Likewise, it maintains that it will respond to any aggression, even if it is a limited attack. (Source: Prensa Latina)
