Iran's Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif lashed out Tuesday at the international, and specifically the US interventions in the Middle East, stressing that they are the source of the highest level of insecurity and instability in the region.
He made his remarks in implicit response to mounting criticism against Iran’s regional meddling in wake of the Houthi militias’ recent escalation of attacks in Yemen.
Speaking at the Tehran Dialogue Forum 2021, the FM said Washington’s malign activity in the region wasn't limited to military intervention.
"US economic war against Iran has consequences, including hurdles in fighting the coronavirus pandemic," he added, according to IRNA news agency.
Zarif said: “Iran is ready to hold talks with all its neighbors and there is no need for aliens to outline the future of the region.”
He highlighted the need for dialogue among nations for human, social and economic development, emphasizing Iran's initiative for the region, called Hormuz Peace Endeavor (HOPE).
"There's no doubt that prolonged dangerous international interference in the region is a primary problem, as the region has been subject to geopolitical plans by trans-regional players during the past five centuries," the FM said.
He explained that Washington has made the region the most unstable and the most insecure spot in the world.
Zarif’ statements came days after the Revolutionary Guards announced its second underground “missile city” base capable of conducting electronic warfare in support of the country’s navy.
Meanwhile, French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian said on Tuesday that efforts to revive nuclear talks with Iran were being held up by “tactical problems” and the domestic situation in Iran ahead of its presidential election in June.
Iran has ruled out broadening nuclear talks to other subjects. Since the United States quit the deal when Donald Trump was president, Iran has progressively reduced its compliance with the pact.
