Iran Says Self-Defence Will Continue Until US-Israel ‘Aggression’ Ends or UN Names Aggressors

Tehran— Iran on Sunday stated that it will continue exercising its right to self-defence until what it calls aggression by the United States and Israel comes to an end, or until the United Nations Security Council formally identifies and names the aggressors under Article 39 of the UN Charter.

In a statement issued by Iran’s Foreign Ministry, Tehran said the joint military strikes by the US and Israel began on February 28, which it claims resulted in the killing of Ali Khamenei along with several senior Iranian officials.

According to the statement, the attacks have continued since then, targeting both military and civilian infrastructure across the country.

The ministry alleged that the strikes have hit multiple facilities including schools, hospitals, sports centres, residential buildings and public service institutions.

Tehran described the attacks as a “flagrant violation” of its territorial integrity and national sovereignty, saying the actions breached fundamental principles of international law.

Iran further stated that responding to what it termed “ruthless military aggression” is its inherent right to self-defence under Article 51 of the United Nations Charter.

“The exercise of Iran's inherent right to legitimate self-defence will continue until the aggression ceases, or until the UN Security Council fulfils its duty under Article 39 of the UN Charter by identifying and naming the aggressors and determining the responsibilities arising from their aggression,” the statement said.

The ministry also referred to its communications with the UN Security Council, stressing that international law obliges states not to allow their territory to be used for acts of aggression against other countries.

It cited provisions from United Nations General Assembly Resolution 3314, which outlines definitions and examples of military aggression under international law. According to Article 3(f) of the resolution, allowing one’s territory to be used by another state to carry out aggression against a third country constitutes an act of aggression.

The statement added that countries permitting their territories to be used for such actions could face international legal responsibility, including compensation for damages caused.

Iran maintained that its military response is legitimate under international law and said it had repeatedly issued warnings through diplomatic and political channels.

“No factor can undermine Iran’s inherent right to defend itself against the military aggression of the United States and the Zionist regime. Iran’s defensive operations are directed against the targets and facilities that are the origin and source of the aggressive actions against the Iranian nation,” the statement said.

At the same time, Tehran emphasised that it remains committed to constructive relations with neighbouring states and regional partners.

The ministry stressed that Iran’s defensive operations targeting US military bases in the region should not be interpreted as hostility toward the countries hosting them.

“Iran continues to support friendly ties with regional countries based on mutual respect, good neighbourly relations and recognition of sovereignty and territorial integrity,” the statement added.

—With inputs from IANS