Iran defends sovereignty, territorial integrity with full force: FM

Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi underscores Iran’s determination to safeguard its sovereignty in the face of ongoing unprovoked American-Israeli aggression targeting the country's soil.

The top diplomat made the remarks in a phone call with his Malaysian counterpart Mohamad Hasan on Tuesday, during which the former referenced the aggressors' deadly attacks against Iranian civilians and civilian infrastructure, including residential areas, schools, and hospitals, throughout the aggression that began late last month.

"Iran defends its national sovereignty and territorial integrity with full force," Araghchi asserted.

He also pointed to the Islamic Republic's retaliatory strikes targeting American outposts and interests throughout the region.

According to the Iranian foreign minister, while the Islamic Republic remains committed to friendly relations and good-neighborly ties with regional countries, the use of their territories by the United States and the Israeli regime for military operations against the country has left Tehran with no option, but to act within its inherent right to self-defense and strike enemy objects in the countries that assist the aggressors.

Call for regional responsibility

Araghchi emphasized that regional countries had to prevent continued use of their land and facilities for attacks against Iran.

"The legal, ethical, and Islamic demand of Iranians from regional countries is to prevent the continued misuse of their territory and resources by the US and the Israeli regime for brutal aggression against a neighboring Muslim country."

Strait of Hormuz measures highlighted

The official also addressed the impact of the unlawful aggression on regional stability and maritime security, particularly in the Strait of Hormuz.

"The insecurity imposed on the Strait of Hormuz is a direct result of US and Israeli military aggression,” he said, noting that the Islamic Republic had taken measures consistent with the international law to defend its sovereignty in the waterway.

Araghchi was referring to Iran's closing the strategic strait to enemy vessels and ships belonging to the states collaborating with the adversaries in retaliation for the aggression.

"Other vessels may transit safely through the strait, provided they coordinate with Iran’s competent authorities."

Malaysia condemns aggression, calls for de-escalation

For his part, Hasan reaffirmed Malaysia’s stance of condemning the aggression against Iran and stressed the need to reduce tensions and restore stability in the region.

He also conveyed condolences and expressed solidarity with the Islamic Republic over the martyrdom of its citizens during the American-Israeli atrocities.

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