Iran says airstrikes violate UN charter, asserts right to self-defence

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran said the country had been subjected to a “criminal military aggression” by the United States and Israel, following airstrikes on several Iranian cities and military facilities on February 28.

In a statement published on its Telegram channel, the ministry said the attacks targeted defence infrastructure and civilian facilities across multiple cities, and characterised them as a violation of Iran’s territorial integrity and sovereignty. It said the strikes took place on the eve of Nowruz and during the holy month of Ramadan, Caliber.Az reports.

According to the statement, the attacks occurred while Iran and the United States were engaged in diplomatic negotiations. The ministry said Iran had entered the talks to demonstrate its commitment to peaceful resolution and to show that there was no justification for military action.

The ministry cited Article 2(4) of the UN Charter, which prohibits the use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any state, and described the airstrikes as armed aggression. It said Iran considered its response to be a lawful exercise of self-defence under Article 51 of the UN Charter, and that its armed forces would use all available capabilities to repel aggression.

The statement called on the United Nations and the United Nations Security Council to take immediate action to address what it described as violations of international peace and security. It also urged the UN Secretary-General, the Security Council president and member states to fulfill their responsibilities. Additionally, it called on UN member states, particularly countries in the region and members of the Non-Aligned Movement, to condemn the strikes and take collective measures to prevent further escalation.

The ministry said Iran’s armed forces were prepared to defend the country and asserted that Iran would respond decisively.

On February 28, Israel and the United States carried out airstrikes on targets in major Iranian cities and military bases.

By Sabina Mammadli