Iran accuses the US and Israel of meddling. China and Russia emphasize Tehran’s dominance
NEW YORK:
Iran’s Ambassador and Deputy Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Gholamhossein Darzi, issued a stern warning that any military or political attack against Tehran will be met with a full and decisive response, while condemning international sanctions as a violation of international law.
Speaking at the UN Security Council, Darzi criticized the United States for convening a meeting on Iran’s domestic situation, calling it shameful and an example of political hypocrisy.
Darzi accused Western human rights groups of promoting an Israeli agenda and argued that years of sanctions have directly harmed ordinary Iranian citizens, not the government.
Reading: ‘Help is on the way’: Trump encourages Iran protests
The Iranian envoy claimed that protesters in Iran faced “ISIS-style attacks” and that Iranian security forces had sacrificed their lives protecting civilians. He accused Washington of inciting the protesters to revolt, calling it interference in Iran’s sovereignty.
Any form of attack against Iran would be a clear violation of international law and the United Nations Charter, the Iranian envoy to the council said, adding that there could be no justification for any military operation against Iran.
He described the situation as a critical test not only for Iran but also for the credibility of the UN and the international system as a whole.
While stressing that Tehran respects the rights of peaceful protesters, Darzi warned that “any external aggression or conspiracy will be met with a strong response.”
Russia and China have also criticized the US and opposed the use of force in the matter involving Iran. Addressing the council, the Russian envoy described the meeting as a “circus”, saying it should have been convened for world peace and not for meddling in Iran’s internal affairs. He said that outside forces are deliberately fueling the current situation in Iran.
The Russian envoy said Iran has made it clear it does not seek tension or confrontation. However, in case of aggression, a strong response will be given. He added that protecting citizens and property is the top priority for the Iranian government, while US statements encouraging the Iranian people to seize institutions are against any country’s sovereignty.
According to the Russian envoy, large numbers of people have taken to the streets to support the Supreme Leader and the Iranian government, and any US action could push the entire region into further crisis.
Russia also offered cooperation for a peaceful resolution of the issues.
Read more: US sanctions Iran over crackdown
Meanwhile, the Chinese envoy said the US should immediately abandon efforts to use force against Iran. He said China opposes the world’s push towards the “law of the jungle” and rejects the use of force against the integrity of any country.
The Chinese envoy stressed that Iran is a sovereign country and the Iranian people have the right to make their own decisions. He said the international community must help solve the challenges facing Iran and that all actions must be in line with the UN Charter and international law.
Separately, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi also had a telephone conversation with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, during which he expressed confidence that the Iranian government and people will remain united and overcome the current difficulties.
The criticism comes amid ongoing tensions between Iran and Western powers over Tehran’s nuclear program, regional activities and handling of the domestic dispute.
The protests began on December 28 in commercial hubs in Tehran, when shopkeepers, traders and small business owners staged strikes and demonstrations to protest soaring inflation, the collapsing rial and worsening economic conditions.
The protests have since grown into nationwide anti-government protests involving workers, students and others in several cities.
US President Donald Trump sharply escalated pressure on Iran, calling on protesters late on Monday to continue demonstrations, saying “help is on the way” and threatening sweeping trade sanctions on countries that do business with Tehran and keep military action firmly on the table.
Trump canceled the meetings, even though he said he had been approached by Iranian officials for talks.
Read also: Prices rise, currency falls: Iran’s economy faces a tough road
There are no official figures on casualties from the protests. The US-based rights group Human Rights Activists News Agency says the death toll has reached 2,615, including security forces and protesters, with 2,054 injured and 18,470 arrested.
Trump announced 25 percent tariffs on any country that trades with Iran, warning that the measure would apply to “any business” with the U.S. and calling the order “final and final,” a move that targets key Iranian partners including China, Turkey, Iraq and others.
Meanwhile, Iran’s economy is going through one of its toughest times in years, fueled by sanctions, high inflation and a significant drop in the value of the national currency, the rial.
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