WANA (Aug 19) – Kazem Jalali, Iran’s ambassador to the Russian Federation, characterized a Ukrainian attack on an Iranian commercial vessel in the Caspian Sea as a criminal and terrorist act, noting that Kiev has yet to pay compensation.

 

In an interview, Jalali stated that the incident involved a deliberate strike on a civilian ship flying the Iranian flag and carrying commercial cargo. He noted that the attack resulted in one fatality and multiple injuries.

 

While acknowledging an apology from Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha regarding the strike, Jalali emphasized that Ukraine must cover all incurred damages.

 

He explained that Iran is currently pursuing compensation from the Ukrainian government to provide restitution to the victims, with consultations underway.

 

Additionally, Jalali criticized Western nations for exhibiting double standards regarding attacks on civilian targets, describing their approach as political and selective.