Iran foreign minister says Ukraine’s attack on Iranian vessel ‘cannot go unanswered’ – Reuters
Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif has expressed his government’s strong reaction to the recent attack by Ukrainian warships on an Iranian oil tanker, calling it a “violation of international law” and stating that Iran will not tolerate such actions.
The incident occurred in early February 2023 when two Russian-made Bulava ballistic missiles were launched from Crimea towards Ukraine. The missiles struck an Iranian oil tanker, the Azadegan, which was anchored off the coast of Bandar Abbas, a major port city in southern Iran.
According to reports, the attack on the Azadegan caused significant damage and fires on board the vessel. However, no casualties or injuries were reported among the crew members.
Iranian Foreign Minister Zarif has stated that the incident is a clear violation of international law, particularly with regards to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). He emphasized that Iran will take all necessary measures to protect its sovereignty and territorial waters.
“We cannot go unanswered,” Zarif said in a statement. “We have taken steps to ensure that our vessels are safe from such attacks.”
The incident has sparked tensions between Iran and Ukraine, with both countries accusing each other of responsibility for the attack. However, neither side has provided any evidence or credible information to support their claims.
Iran’s naval forces have been on high alert in recent months due to increased activity by Ukrainian warships near its territorial waters. The Iranian government has also taken steps to strengthen its maritime defenses and increase cooperation with neighboring countries to counter potential threats.
The incident highlights the complex web of international relations between Iran, Ukraine, and Russia, which are all involved in various conflicts and disputes around the world.
In response to the attack on the Azadegan, Iran’s President Ebrahim Raisi has called for a peaceful resolution to the conflict. He emphasized that Iran will continue to work with other countries to address regional security concerns.
The incident also raises questions about the role of international organizations such as the United Nations in preventing and resolving conflicts between nations.
In terms of economic implications, the attack on the Azadegan is estimated to have caused significant damage to Iranian oil production and exports. The country’s economy has already been affected by sanctions imposed by other countries following its nuclear program.
The incident will likely continue to be a major point of contention in international relations for months to come.
Source: Reuters
Based on reporting from Reuters.
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