Iran Asserts Right to Self-Defense Amid Ongoing US-Israel Aggression

Iran has firmly stated its right to self-defense in response to ongoing military actions by the United States and Israel. The Iranian government claims these actions violate its sovereignty and international law. Tehran's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has outlined the impact of these attacks on civilian infrastructure and emphasized its commitment to defending its territory. The statement also highlights Iran's desire to maintain constructive relations with neighboring countries while asserting its right to respond militarily to aggression. This declaration raises significant questions about international law and regional security dynamics.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 8, 2026, 10:20 IST

Iran's Stance on Self-Defense

Tehran: On Sunday, Iran reaffirmed its commitment to self-defense, stating that it will persist until what it labels as 'aggression' from the United States and Israel ceases or until the United Nations Security Council identifies the aggressors as per Article 39 of the UN Charter.

The Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs released a statement indicating that the military actions by the US and Israel commenced on February 28, following the assassination of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and several high-ranking Iranian officials.

The statement detailed that these attacks have targeted both military and civilian infrastructures throughout Iran.

Facilities affected include schools, hospitals, sports complexes, residential areas, and public service institutions.

Iran characterized these military actions as a blatant infringement on its territorial integrity and national sovereignty, claiming they violate essential principles of international law.

The country emphasized that responding to what it calls 'ruthless military aggression' is its inherent right to self-defense, referencing Article 51 of the United Nations Charter.

"Iran's legitimate right to self-defense will persist until the aggression stops or until the UN Security Council fulfills its responsibilities under Article 39 by identifying the aggressors and addressing the consequences of their actions," the statement asserted.

Tehran also highlighted its communications with the UN Security Council, noting that international law obligates states to refrain from using their territories for acts of aggression.

"As outlined in various correspondences with the UN Security Council, the fundamental principle of international law prohibits states from permitting their territory to be used, directly or indirectly, to harm other states," the statement explained.

The ministry referenced provisions in UN General Assembly Resolution 3314, which defines military aggression under international law.

"According to UN General Assembly Resolution 3314, adopted by consensus and reflecting customary international law, one example of military aggression is when a state allows its territory to be used by another state to carry out aggressive acts against a third state," it added.

The Foreign Ministry asserted that international law mandates states to prevent their territories from being utilized for attacks against other nations and to avoid facilitating such actions.

Moreover, countries permitting their territories to be used for military aggression against another state could incur legal responsibilities under international law.

"It is clear that if these fundamental obligations are violated, other states from whose territory military aggression is launched against a third state will bear international legal responsibilities, including compensation for damages incurred," the statement concluded.

Iran reiterated that its military response is legitimate under international law and has been communicated through various diplomatic channels.

"No factor can diminish Iran's inherent right to defend itself against the military aggression of the United States and the Zionist regime. Iran's defensive actions target the origins of aggressive actions against the Iranian nation. Regional countries have recognized that US bases on their soil do not enhance regional security but rather support aggressors," the statement emphasized.

Simultaneously, the ministry reiterated Iran's commitment to fostering constructive relationships with neighboring nations and regional partners.

The statement affirmed Tehran's dedication to maintaining friendly relations with regional countries based on mutual respect, good neighborliness, and recognition of each other's sovereignty and territorial integrity.

"Iran's defensive operations against US military bases should not be interpreted as hostility towards regional countries," the ministry concluded.