Iran Warns UK Against Supporting Aggression, Foreign Minister Says

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has once again warned the United Kingdom against helping those carrying out aggression against Iran.

Araghchi made the remarks during a phone call with British Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband on Friday.

He said any cooperation with aggressors, including under the pretext of previous “defense agreements,” is “unacceptable.”

Araghchi said that under international law and the Definition of Aggression resolution, allowing an aggressor to use a country’s territory or facilities to launch an illegal attack on another country is considered an act of aggression. He said the targeted country then has the right to respond in “self-defense.”

On July 21, reports said UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham had approved the continued use of British military bases by the United States for military action against Iran. The policy was reportedly continued from his predecessor, Keir Starmer.

Araghchi also criticised Britain’s decision to list the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) under its so-called “State Threats legislation.” He described Britain’s approach towards Iran as “unjustified” and accused London of being involved in two previous unprovoked wars against Iran.

The Iranian foreign minister urged the British government to reconsider its position. He also stressed that Iran is prepared to respond to any US action against the Islamic Republic and warned third countries against helping such actions.

Miliband, meanwhile, said his country “is not part of the war with Iran.” He said, “We believe in diplomacy to resolve issues,” and stressed the importance of continuing diplomatic talks with Iran to improve relations and reduce tensions in the region.