WANA (Mar 24) – Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi and Malaysian Foreign Minister Dato’ Seri Utama Haji Mohammad Bin Hassan held a telephone conversation to discuss regional developments, particularly the economic consequences of the ongoing U.S. and Israeli military actions against Iran.

 

Araghchi outlined crimes committed by U.S. and Israeli forces against the Iranian people, including attacks on schools, hospitals, and residential areas.

 

He emphasized Iran’s determination to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity, stating that the country will use all available means to protect its national borders.

 

He stressed that while Iran is committed to maintaining friendly relations with all regional countries, the use of their territories and military facilities by the U.S. and Israel to carry out attacks against Iran leaves Tehran with no option but to take defensive measures under its inherent right to self-defense.

 

Araghchi also urged neighboring countries to prevent further misuse of their territories and facilities by the U.S. and Israel for aggressive actions against a neighboring Islamic country, calling it a legal, moral, and Islamic obligation.

 

Highlighting the impact of U.S. and Israeli military actions on regional security, the economy, and maritime safety in the Strait of Hormuz, he said that the imposed insecurity in the waterway is a direct result of these aggressions.

 

Iran has implemented measures in line with international law to protect its sovereignty and territorial integrity in the strait.

 

He clarified that the Strait of Hormuz is closed to vessels belonging to or associated with the U.S., Israel, or any party involved in their military operations against Iran. Other ships may transit safely through the strait but must coordinate with Iranian authorities.

 

The Malaysian Foreign Minister reaffirmed Malaysia’s principled stance condemning aggression against Iran and stressed the need to reduce tensions and restore stability and security in the region.

 

He expressed condolences and solidarity with Iran over the deaths of civilians in U.S. and Israeli attacks and highlighted the importance of maintaining lasting regional stability and security.