Iranian FM calls missile strike on Israel "self-defence measure"

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi declared that the missile attack on Israel on October 1 was a defensive response to Israeli assaults on Iranian interests.

“If Israel attacks Iran again, an even more powerful retaliatory strike will be launched against it,” he stated, speaking at a press conference in Beirut, Caliber.Az reports via Iranian media.

Araghchi revealed that he had discussions with Lebanese leaders on October 4 regarding the potential for a ceasefire. “Iran stands firmly on the side of Lebanese friends and supports the resistance forces,” he asserted. “We are confident that Lebanon will emerge victorious.”

He also clarified that Iran would support a ceasefire on the Lebanese-Israeli border if Hezbollah takes such a position. Furthermore, Deputy Commander-in-Chief of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Ali Fadavi warned that Iran would target Israel's energy infrastructure, including refineries and gas fields, should Israel “make a mistake.”

Fadavi emphasized, “If the occupiers (meaning Israel) make a mistake, we will strike their energy facilities, power plants, oil refineries, and gas fields.”

Meanwhile, speaking during Friday prayer in Tehran, Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei stated, "What our armed forces did was the least punishment for the crimes of the Zionist regime, the U.S., and its allies," reflecting on Iran's October 1 strike on Israel.

He emphasized, "Whatever task the Islamic Republic faces in this field, it will fulfil it with strength and steadfastness. We are neither delaying nor rushing in carrying out our duty. These actions will continue if necessary."

By Tamilla Hasanova