New Delhi [India], June 18 (ANI): Mohammad Javad Hosseini, Deputy Chief of Mission of Iran in India, has asserted that Iran’s response to Israel’s aggression is a legitimate act of self-defense, as outlined in Article 51 of the United Nations Charter. Speaking to ANI, Hosseini emphasized that Iran is fully capable of defending its people, government, and sovereignty.
“The truth is that since June 13, we were attacked by the Israeli regime—an act of aggression that constitutes a flagrant violation of international law and the sovereignty of an independent state. It is expected that free nations and governments seeking justice in the world will condemn such aggression,” Hosseini said.
He underscored that Iran’s retaliatory actions are lawful and necessary:
“We are in a position to defend our people, our government, our country in the best way. We have shown that we are able and we will continue because we are under attack. Our retaliatory action is based on the self-defense clause in Article 51 of the UN Charter, which gives us the right to protect our citizens.”
Hosseini also referred to recent threats issued by Israeli officials against high-ranking Iranian figures.
“They have officially announced threats against Iranian officials. Additionally, they assassinated several Iranian military personnel—acts that clearly violate international regulations. There have already been several exchanges involving missiles and drones between both sides, but we are defending ourselves appropriately and are confident in our actions. We will continue until this aggression is halted,” he added.
When asked about the US-Iran nuclear deal and former US President Donald Trump’s recent demand for Iran’s “unconditional surrender,” Hosseini responded by emphasizing Iran’s continued commitment to diplomacy.
“We were at the negotiating table. It was America that gave the green light to Israel to carry out these military attacks against Iran, based on false accusations without any evidence,” he said.
Hosseini criticized the bypassing of international mechanisms designed to verify allegations, alleging that the US and Israel undermined established protocols.
“If there are any allegations, they should go through the mechanisms established by international organizations like the United Nations. But they ignored these procedures and, with the backing of the US, sought to sabotage the negotiations.”
He reiterated Iran’s willingness to negotiate but stressed that no foreign power could dictate its national decisions.
“We are still at the negotiation table, but no one can force us to act against our will. They cannot tell us to stop or continue the war on their terms. We hope the US refrains from further involvement in this conflict, as it will not benefit Iran, Israel, or any other regional actors. We will continue to defend ourselves as long as necessary,” Hosseini said.
Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump expressed optimism regarding a possible resolution. “I think a deal will be signed. I think Iran is foolish not to sign one,” he said.
Trump added that diplomatic efforts could progress soon after he departs from the G7 summit. “I think Iran is basically at the negotiating table and wants to make a deal. As soon as I leave here, we’re going to be doing something,” he said at the summit.
Iran has called on the United States to help end the aerial assaults that have intensified in recent days. (ANI)
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