Iran responded to the US State Department's annual report on terrorism, accusing Washington of using terrorism as a tool against others, and demanded that it prosecute those involved in the assassination of al-Quds Force Commander Qassem Soleimani.
Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Nasser Kanaani strongly criticized the annual report by the State Department on global terrorism, labeling it as "biased and politically motivated."
Kanaani argued that the report, aimed at portraying certain countries as threats to the US, lacks "international credibility" and fails to represent nations' "genuine efforts to combat terrorism accurately."
The Iranian News Agency (IRNA) quoted Kanaani as saying that after 20 years of publishing such unilateral and targeted reports, the international community and public opinion are in a better position to understand and judge the US administration and its actions and double standards in dealing with terrorism.
He underlined the importance of not distorting the true nature of the legitimate actions undertaken by regional resistance movements, which have garnered international recognition for their steadfast efforts against the occupation of lands by foreigners.
The US is the main instigator in organizing, training, equipping, and directing terrorists, particularly from groups like ISIS, he stressed, highlighting the extensive support that Washington provides to Israel, a recognized sponsor of terrorism, including giving various bombs and lethal weapons.
Furthermore, Kanaani pointed out that the US consistently hampers UN Security Council resolutions calling for a halt to Gaza bombings, making this country complicit in the deaths of over 15,000 civilians, including women and children, in the Strip.
He indicated that the US administration is aware of the involvement of some of its former officials in the assassination of Soleimani and continues to avoid its responsibility in holding those responsible accountable.
He highlighted that the US not only facilitates the transfer, financing, and refuge of terrorists but also shamelessly employs terrorism as a tool to advance its foreign policy agenda.
- Bagheri to Baghdad
Iranian media reported that Chief of Staff General Mohammad Bagheri arrived in Iraq at the head of a high-level military delegation for a three-day visit.
During this visit, Bagheri is scheduled to meet several high-level political and military officials and discuss bilateral and regional cooperation.
- Joint training with Russia and China
Meanwhile, Iran, Russia, and China's naval forces are set to stage a joint exercise in the Gulf.
Iranian Navy Commander Rear Admiral Shahram Irani told a news channel that the drills will include various divisions, adding that delegates from Pakistan, Brazil, Oman, India, South Africa, and several Caspian Sea littoral states will participate as observers.
The Commander explained that the joint naval maneuvers between Iran and Oman took place on Thursday for maritime rescue operations, adding that they take place annually.
He explained that the maneuvers developed throughout the years, and now both countries can participate in rescue missions.
- UUV to destroy mines
During a defense exhibition, the Iranian Navy revealed an unmanned underwater vehicle (UUV) capable of destroying sea mines.
Iranian media said this new submarine can operate up to 200m deep and identify and destroy all anchored and hidden mines.
