Saeed Khatibzadeh asserts that involvement by the US would not only exacerbate tensions but also undermine diplomatic efforts, following recent missile exchanges between Iran and Israel.
US Involvement in Israeli Airstrikes Could Bring Regional Chaos, Warns Iranian Official
US Involvement in Israeli Airstrikes Could Bring Regional Chaos, Warns Iranian Official
Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister cautions that American military action may escalate the ongoing conflict in the region.
In a recent interview with the BBC, Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister Saeed Khatibzadeh expressed strong opposition to any potential US involvement in Israeli strikes, claiming it would result in "hell for the whole region." He emphasized that this conflict does not belong to the United States, warning that if President Trump were to engage militarily, he would be remembered as "a president who entered a war he doesn't belong in."
This statement comes on the heels of accusations and retaliatory strikes exchanged between Iran and Israel. Iranian state media reported that a missile attack from Iran targeted a military site adjacent to Soroka hospital in southern Israel, injuring 71 individuals, according to Israel's Ministry of Health. Simultaneously, the Israeli military announced strikes on Iranian nuclear sites, including the key Arak and Natanz facilities.
The recent escalation occurs as the White House indicates President Trump will decide on US involvement in the next two weeks. Khatibzadeh argued for a diplomatic resolution but insisted that ongoing military assaults undermine any prospects for negotiation. He characterized Iran's military actions against Israel as "self-defense" under the United Nations Charter and condemned the Israeli attacks as "unprovoked."
Addressing Trump's assertions that the conflict stemmed from Iran's unwillingness to accept a nuclear deal, Khatibzadeh claimed that negotiations were nearly at a resolution before Israel launched its military strikes. He criticized Trump’s social media presence for being "confusing," implying the United States had played a role in the conflict.
Reports suggest multiple discussions between US special envoy Steve Witkoff and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi in a bid to de-escalate the crisis. However, Araqchi has voiced that Iran will not return to negotiations while Israel continues its attacks.
Compounding these tensions is the recent revelation from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) that Iran has amassed uranium enriched to 60% purity, a significant step towards weapons-grade capacity. Khatibzadeh dismissed these claims, stating, "This is nonsense," and reiterated that Iran's nuclear activities are purely peaceful.
As the G7 convenes in Canada, Khatibzadeh noted that European nations are keen to resume diplomatic discussions, which may pave the way for potential negotiations aimed at resolving the ongoing tensions between Iran and Israel.
