The ambassador raises serious questions about the credibility of US intentions, as diplomatic engagement between Tehran and Washington was continuing
NEW DELHI — Amid joint military strikes by the United States and Israel on Iran, senior Iranian officials at an iftar party here on Saturday delivered a defiant message, asserting Tehran’s resolve to defend its sovereignty and dignity.
Addressing diplomats, scholars, and prominent members of civil society at the event, Iran’s Ambassador to India, Mohammad Fathali, condemned the attacks as a “clear act of military aggression” and declared that Iran would “never bow to foreign aggression.”
“This morning, during the holy month of Ramadan, the United States and the Zionist regime violated Iran’s sovereignty and territorial integrity,” Ambassador Fathali said. “They attacked targets in several cities, including defensive infrastructure and civilian areas. This aggression once again exposes their true intentions.”
The ambassador emphasised that the strikes occurred even as diplomatic engagement between Tehran and Washington was ongoing, raising serious questions about the credibility of US intentions.
“These attacks happened while Iran and the United States were in a diplomatic process,” he said. “Despite our doubts based on past experience, including the recent 12-day war, Iran chose to continue negotiations. We did this to show the international community that Iran wants peace and to remove any excuse for war.”
However, he added, the latest military action demonstrated that Washington and Tel Aviv were not acting in good faith. “Today’s joint action proves once again that they are not reliable. Their real goal is pressure, threats, and military aggression to secure their illegitimate interests,” he said.
‘Iran Has the Right to Defend Itself’
Ambassador Fathali underscored that Iran’s response would be guided by international law, particularly Article 51 of the United Nations Charter, which affirms the inherent right of self-defence.
“As an independent country, Iran will use all necessary options to protect its territorial integrity, its independence, and the lives of its citizens,” he said. “The Armed Forces of the Islamic Republic of Iran are fully prepared. Just as we were ready for negotiation, we are now fully ready for defence.”
In a stern warning, he added that any further military aggression would have serious consequences. “Iran has already made it clear that if we are attacked militarily, all bases and assets of the United States and the Zionist regime in the region will be considered legitimate targets,” he said.
At the same time, the envoy reiterated Iran’s commitment to regional stability and peaceful relations with neighbouring countries, particularly those in the Persian Gulf.
“We respect our neighbours and seek stability in our region. We expect these countries to understand the current situation and help prevent further escalation by putting pressure on the aggressors,” he said.
Calling upon global institutions to intervene, Ambassador Fathali urged the United Nations and the Security Council to uphold international law.
“The violation of international law and the UN Charter must not be ignored. The international community must respond to this dangerous situation, which threatens regional and global peace,” he said.
‘United and Determined’
Abdolmajeed Hakimelahi, representative of Iran’s Supreme Leader in India, also addressed the gathering and echoed the ambassador’s message of unity and resistance.
“Iran is fully capable of defending its sovereignty and territorial integrity,” Hakimelahi said. “The entire Iranian nation stands united against the latest aggression by the United States and Israel.”
He noted that despite the early morning attacks, the Cultural House decided not to cancel the iftar event, underscoring Iran’s resilience and commitment to its cultural and spiritual traditions even in times of crisis.
“The Iranian people stand with dignity and faith. History shows that Iranians never bow to foreign aggression, and this time will be no different,” he said.
The iftar, hosted by Hakimelahi, was attended by a cross-section of diplomats, academics, community leaders, and public figures, reflecting strong engagement with Iran’s diplomatic and cultural outreach in India.
The event, held against the backdrop of rising regional tensions, served not only as a religious and cultural gathering but also as a platform for Iran to articulate its position and signal its determination to defend its sovereignty.
“At this historic moment, Iran stands united,” Ambassador Fathali said. “With faith in God and trust in our national strength, we will firmly defend our homeland.”
