Iran’s Foreign Minister, Seyed Abbas Araghchi, accused Ukraine of attacking an Iranian commercial vessel, resulting in the death of a sailor, allegedly under Israel’s influence to involve Europe in its conflict. Araghchi emphasized the need for a response to this violation of the UN Charter during discussions with EU High Representative Kaja Kallas and Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. He urged the European Union to take decisive action against Ukraine for targeting the Iranian ship in the Caspian Sea.
Araghchi condemned the attack in a call with Kallas, urging the EU, UN Security Council, and the international community to hold the perpetrators and supporters accountable. The conversation also touched on the situation in the Strait of Hormuz, emphasizing the importance of diplomatic efforts to ease regional tensions. Iran summoned Ukraine’s Charge d’Affaires in Tehran to formally protest the “hostile and criminal” act.
Following the incident, Iran’s Foreign Ministry stated that the attack caused the vessel to explode, resulting in the death of a sailor and injury to another crew member. Iran emphasized its non-involvement in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, warning that such actions could escalate the war and insecurity in the region. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky claimed that Ukrainian forces had targeted a Russian warship and vessels carrying Iran-linked military cargo in the Caspian Sea.
