Iran will not allow aggressors to violate its people's rights: Kanaani
Tehran warns Washington that it would respond to defend the rights of its people if news about the unloading of a seized oil tanker by the US is confirmed.
In response to media reports about the unloading of Iran's seized oil by the United States, Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Nasser Kanaani warned that Iran will not allow the aggressors to violate the rights of the Iranian people.
The spokesperson said the news is yet to receive official confirmation. However, he warned Washington against such an action if the reported incident is confirmed to have happened, emphasizing that Iran would respond appropriately and defend its national rights.
Furthermore, he underscored the Iranian government's commitment to safeguarding the nation's rights and thwarting any aggressive moves.
A Wall Street Journal report says that the standoff over the stolen oil highlights the failure of the US administration in implementing sanctions against #Iran, as #Tehran has allegedly become bolder in its maritime expeditions. pic.twitter.com/NwHW4OdvNx
— Al Mayadeen English (@MayadeenEnglish) July 19, 2023
Read more: US, Iran in talks to reach 'understanding' on nuclear issue: Reuters
In regards to the indirect talks between Iran and the US, Kanaani made clear that these discussions are confined to matters such as prisoner exchanges, the release of Iran's blocked assets, and negotiations on lifting sanctions.
He further clarified that there are no plans for direct talks between the two countries during the upcoming United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) meeting or any other venue.
Regarding the issue of Iran's frozen funds in Iraq and South Korea, Kanaani assured that Iran is actively working to secure the rights of its people. Some portions of these assets have already been retrieved, and the Iranian government is diligently advancing the process.
Read more: Frozen Iranian assets in S. Korea transferred to Switzerland
In light of the occasion of the International Day of Victims of Terrorism, Kanaani highlighted Iran's role as a front-runner in the global fight against terrorism. The diplomat echoed the sentiments of Iranian leader Sayyed Ali Khamenei, describing the Islamic Revolution Guard Corps (IRGC) as the world's most prominent anti-terrorist organization.
Turning to diplomatic developments, Kanaani discussed Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian's recent visit to Saudi Arabia, characterizing the meetings as positive and constructive. During the discussions, he explained, the Iranian and Saudi diplomats emphasized reactivating existing agreements and drafting new documents to bolster bilateral cooperation. Both sides agreed to swiftly convene the joint commission for economic cooperation.
Read more: Saudi hosts Iran FM, counterparts discuss bilateral ties
Kanaani also highlighted Iran's intent to cooperate with the BRICS group (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) and expressed the nation's eagerness to enhance economic collaboration and explore potential membership. He emphasized that Iran's alignment with BRICS objectives bodes well for mutual benefits and global economic advancement.
Iran, among more than a dozen nations seeking membership in BRICS, perceives the bloc as a platform to strengthen economic ties and promote shared interests, given that its members collectively represent half of the world's population and a substantial portion of the global economy.