Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi criticized the US strikes that resulted in the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, labeling them as unlawful aggression. Araghchi, speaking to ABC News, emphasized that Iran would respond without compromise, denouncing Washington’s justification for the attacks.
Araghchi clarified that the actions taken by the United States were viewed as aggression, contrasting them with Iran’s stance of self-defense. He highlighted that Iran’s response was considered legitimate under international law, outlining the country’s diplomatic and legal position on the matter.
The Foreign Minister’s statements indicated a firm stance on potential retaliation, with a commitment to defending Iran by any means necessary. Despite ongoing US efforts to target Iran’s missile infrastructure, Araghchi did not acknowledge any impact on Iran’s military capabilities or hint at a willingness to engage in negotiations.
US officials have expressed intentions to continue operations against Iran, focusing on dismantling its missile capabilities. Senate Intelligence Committee Chairman Tom Cotton emphasized a strategic approach to neutralizing Iran’s missile assets, foreseeing potential retaliatory actions from Iran targeting US bases, Arab allies, and Israel.
