Iran will continue to defend itself if "aggression from the American and Israeli side continues," stated Seyed Ali Mousavi, Iran's ambassador to the UK. Speaking to the BBC, Mousavi asserted that Iran's policy remains defensive, but "if facilities or properties or bases are used against the Iranian nation," they will be considered "legitimate targets."
This declaration comes after days of strikes across the Middle East, with Iran's president having previously apologized to Gulf neighbors and promised to halt attacks. Mousavi, however, clarified that while Iran has "willingness... not to strike, not to attack our neighbours," they reserve the right to strike targets across the region where military bases are located, especially in response to continued actions by the United States and Israel.
Mousavi emphasized that Iran's response "depends on the activities of the Americans and the Israeli regime." He dismissed claims that Iran is the source of the conflict and rejected US President Donald Trump's calls for surrender. While Iran has apologized for some regional disruption, the ambassador indicated this does not signal an end to the ongoing conflict.