Vow to Counter Israeli Presence in Persian Gulf

EghtesadOnline: Iran sees Israel’s possible participation in a proposed US-led force in the Persian Gulf as a “clear threat” to its security and reserves the right to take action against such a menacing move, the Foreign Ministry said on Friday.

News ID: ۷۴۸۱۳۲

10 August 2019

Foreign Ministry Spokesman Abbas Mousavi reiterated that the Israeli regime is the main source of insecurity and instability in the Middle East, ISNA reported.

“Iran considers Israel’s possible presence in a US-led mission in the Persian Gulf as a clear threat to its security, sovereignty and territorial integrity,” he said.

Mousavi declared that such a destabilizing presence would provoke crisis in the Persian Gulf, according to Financial Tribune.

“In line with the country's deterrence and defensive policy, the Islamic Republic of Iran reserves the right to counter this threat and defend its territory," he said.

"The US regime and the illegitimate Zionist regime would be responsible for all the consequences of this dangerous move."

The spokesman’s remarks came after Israel said it will join the US effort “to boost security of navigation in the Persian Gulf”.

Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz said on August 7 that the Israeli regime will be part of the US-led coalition to “protect” the security of the Persian Gulf.

Katz claimed Israel was determined to stop “Iranian entrenchment” in the Middle East and strengthen Tel Aviv’s relationship with Persian Gulf countries, Ynet reported.

It is akin to someone opposing “USA’s entrenchment” in North America and “Chinese entrenchment” in East Asia.

Mousavi warned that the US coalition plan could cause flare-ups in the region.

“Iran believes the presence of trans-regional forces in the Persian Gulf under any banner will not only fail to help improve regional security, but will set the stage for tension and crisis in the sensitive region,” he said.

The spokesman noted that Iran is opposed to the formation of such a coalition, as a military buildup could turn the region into a flashpoint.

In addition, Mousavi said “the organizers, founders and members” of the alliance would be responsible for any possible conflict arising from their moves.