Iran's Ambassador to India, Mohammad Fathali, on Thursday defended Iran's sovereignty amid months of conflict, attributing escalations to external provocations by "warmongering figures" and the "destabilising policies" of the "Zionist regime."
Envoy Blames 'Zionist Regime' for Obstacles
In an interview with ANI, the envoy stated that the war not only failed to achieve its objectives but also imposed substantial costs on the region and the global economy. He said, "If obstacles still exist today to the full normalisation of Iran's economic relations with the international community, a significant part of the challenge stems from the confrontational and destabilising policies of the Zionist regime."
Fathali alleged that the "Zionist regime" has sought to prevent an atmosphere of cooperation and trust in the region through insecurity, tension, and crises.
Iran's Sovereignty Cannot Be Imposed Upon
The Ambassador emphasised that Iran is not a country upon which political will can be imposed through pressure or threats. He noted that recent US decision-makers entered conflict with Iran under the influence of narratives promoted by the "Zionist regime," but the war failed to achieve its goals and imposed heavy costs.
Fathali highlighted Iran's deep-rooted history as an ancient civilisation, stating that the Islamic Republic of Iran has consistently expressed readiness for constructive engagement and cooperation based on mutual respect and shared interests.
Call for Dialogue Over Confrontation
The envoy expressed hope that a greater sense of realism and prudence has emerged among American officials, leading them to choose dialogue and mutual respect over confrontation. He said, "Under such circumstances, there would be no obstacle to the expansion of Iran's economic relations with the world, and all parties would stand to benefit."
His remarks come as the US and Iran achieved a diplomatic breakthrough with US President Donald Trump signing a peace deal Memorandum of Understanding with Iran at the G7 summit in Versailles.
