Iran’s Foreign Ministry has accused the United States and Israel of launching joint military aggression against the country. In a statement released by the ministry, Iran said the attacks began on February 28, 2026 and violated its territorial integrity and national sovereignty.
According to the statement, the strikes targeted both military and civilian locations. Iranian officials said several facilities were hit, including schools, hospitals, sports centers, residential homes, and public service buildings. The ministry also said the attacks led to the martyrdom of the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution and a number of senior officials.
The statement described the attacks as a “flagrant violation” of international law. It added that Iran’s armed forces are now using all available capabilities to respond to what it called criminal aggression.
Iran Invokes Right to Self-Defense
Iran said its response is based on the right to self-defense under Article 51 of the United Nations Charter. According to the Foreign Ministry, this right allows a country to defend itself when it faces armed aggression.
The statement said Iran’s defensive actions will continue until the attacks stop. It also called on the United Nations Security Council to fulfill its responsibility by identifying the aggressors and addressing the situation.
Iran further argued that international law prohibits countries from allowing their territory to be used to attack another state. Officials pointed to a UN General Assembly resolution that defines military aggression and highlights responsibility for states that allow such actions.
Message to Countries Hosting US Bases
At the same time, Iran warned that countries hosting foreign military bases should not allow them to be used for attacks on other nations. The statement said that if a state permits its territory to be used for military aggression, it may face international legal responsibility.
However, Iran stressed that its defensive operations are directed only at the sources of the attacks. It said these actions should not be seen as hostility toward neighboring countries.
Finally, the Foreign Ministry said Iran remains committed to maintaining friendly relations with regional states. It added that Iran supports cooperation based on mutual respect, good neighbor relations, and respect for national sovereignty.
