Iran attacks on U.S. military bases in Gulf region lawful, defensive – Ambassador

By Sarafina Christopher

Iran has warned that it would exercise its right to self-defence under Article 51 of the United Nations Charter, if foreign military facilities were used to launch operations against Iranian soil.

Iran’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Mahdavi Raja, gave the warning at a news conference on Thursday in Abuja.

Raja therefore said military installations hosting United States forces in the Gulf region could become targets in response to current U.S.-Israel attacks against the territory.

Raja emphasised that Iran did not view neighbouring states as adversaries but warned that any installations used for attacks on Iran could be considered part of the military equation.

“Our actions are defensive and lawful, focused on military targets only,” he said, adding that civilian infrastructure in neighbouring countries remained outside the scope of Iran’s response.

The envoy said the attacks follow reported aggression by the United States and Israel, describing the strikes as unprovoked and carried out notwithstanding ongoing diplomatic engagements.

According to the envoy, the escalation undermines trust in negotiations and violates international norms.

He cited multiple Gulf states, including Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates and Bahrain, where American military bases could become targets if used against Iran.

Raja also underlined that Iran’s defensive measures were proportionate and consistent with international law.

The envoy urged the international community and the United Nations to take a clear position by condemning the attacks and ensuring respect for sovereignty and regional stability.

He said Iran remained committed to diplomacy and peace, but reiterated that any further aggression against the country would be met with a measured defensive response.

Raja emphasised that Tehran’s actions were aimed at preserving national security and protecting its population while maintaining respect for international norms.

He warned that the ongoing situation had the potential to affect regional stability, stressing that the global community must uphold international law to prevent further escalation.

(NAN)