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While the Islamic Republic of Iran had chosen the path of indirect negotiations with the US, on the eve of the sixth round, on June 13, 2025, it faced an illegal armed attack by the Israeli regime.

Iran had been prepared to reach an agreement within the framework of its commitment to nuclear non-proliferation and the legitimate right to a peaceful nuclear program.

In response to Israel’s unlawful act of aggression, Iran exercised its inherent and lawful right to self-defense as stipulated in Article 51 of the UN Charter.

Let us not forget that even amidst the “imposed war” by the Israeli regime, Iran remained steadfastly committed to the path of diplomacy.

Also, at the very moment when Iran’s foreign minister was engaged in negotiations in Geneva with the European Troika and the EU high representative for foreign affairs, and consulting with regional states in Istanbul, the nation fell victim to military strike by the US.

This was a blatant betrayal of diplomacy and a grave threat to regional and global security.

“The Israeli regime’s attack was not just against Iran, it was a calculated and deliberate strike against regional stability, integrity, progress and development.”

The targeting of Iran’s fully transparent and safeguarded nuclear facilities, subject to the UN’s monitoring and verification — by a rogue regime that flouts international law, evades Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty obligations, and hides its nuclear arsenal — reveals the hypocrisy of the so-called rules-based order.

The Israeli regime, as an illegal occupying entity, has consistently violated international law through prolonged occupation, genocide, and illegitimate aggression against Iran.

These acts aim to destabilize the region, halt its progress and prosperity, and impose its bullying agenda. But the era of impunity has come to an end.

Iran has always made its position clear that it has never ignited war in the region, nor will it ever do so. We have long warned that Israel threatens regional security, with dire implications for the entire region.

The Israeli regime’s aggression was not just against Iran, it was a calculated and deliberate strike against regional stability, integrity, progress, and development. It is aimed at forcibly reshaping the region according to its destructive agenda.

In the face of the Israeli attack, Iran deeply appreciates the principled positions and valuable solidarity of neighboring countries, especially the Kingdom of �������� and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation.

They have, in these critical times, stood in unity and solidarity alongside Iran, firmly condemning the hostile act against Iran.

The great nation of Iran will never forget the full support of the Kingdom, under the special directive of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, to provide Iranian pilgrims with comprehensive services, and to help facilitate their safe return home.

The wise positions of regional countries during Israel’s aggression against Iran demonstrate their collective wisdom. They have shown their responsibility to safeguard the region against the Israeli threat, which is the primary disruptor of its peace, stability, and security.

At this critical juncture, the region is in greater need than ever to foster cooperation and ensure shared stability. Iran continues to extend its hand of friendship to neighboring states.

A fundamental pillar of Iran’s foreign policy is the principle of good neighborly relations and regional cooperation.

• Ali Reza Enayati is the ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran to the Kingdom of ��������.

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