Russia says Iran has right to self-defence, urges return to talks

Russia has reaffirmed that Iran has the right to defend itself under international law while calling on the United States and Israel to stop military actions and resume negotiations, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova said.

Speaking at a briefing, Zakharova said Moscow considered it important to reiterate that the Islamic Republic of Iran, like all states, has the right to self-defence in line with Article 51 of the UN Charter. At the same time, she said Russia regarded strikes against civilian targets and infrastructure in Iran, neighbouring Arab countries, or elsewhere as unacceptable, Caliber.Az reports per TASS.

Zakharova called on Washington and Tel Aviv to halt what she described as aggression and to return to the negotiating table.

She also stressed that it was crucial for all parties involved in the escalating confrontation in the Middle East to exercise restraint and common sense. According to Zakharova, countries should avoid double standards and renew efforts to end the confrontation as soon as possible on the basis of good-neighbourly relations.

Zakharova added that Russia would continue taking steps aimed at rapidly reducing tensions in the Middle East and resolving disputes through peaceful means. She said Moscow intended to keep promoting its concept of “common and indivisible security” in the Persian Gulf, which, according to her, would ensure that the interests of all countries in the region are taken into account.

By Sabina Mammadli