Iran has stated it will hold the United States responsible for any Israeli attack on its nuclear facilities, following reports suggesting Israel is preparing for such a strike. This comes as nuclear talks between the two countries continue, with a meeting set for Friday in Rome.
Iran’s Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, emphasized that any attack on Iranian nuclear sites by Israel would involve the US, which would bear legal responsibility. In a letter to the United Nations, Araghchi warned against any actions by Israel, promising a “decisive” response to any threats or illegal acts.
The warning follows reports from CNN on Tuesday that Israel was preparing for an attack on Iran’s nuclear infrastructure. The announcement coincides with ongoing nuclear negotiations between Iran and the US, mediated by Oman since April, marking the highest-level discussions since the US withdrew from the 2015 nuclear deal under President Donald Trump.
Israel, a long-time adversary of Iran, has repeatedly threatened military action against Iranian nuclear sites. Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) spokesperson, Ali Mohammad Naini, issued a stern warning on Thursday, describing any Israeli attack as a “foolish” move that would provoke a “devastating and decisive response” within Israel’s limited geographical space.
Meanwhile, pro-nuclear energy demonstrators gathered outside the Fordow nuclear plant near Tehran, waving Iranian flags and chanting slogans in support of Iran’s nuclear rights and defiance against the US. The gathering underscored Iran’s stance that nuclear energy is an inalienable right and its rejection of any compromise with the West.
The two nations have been locked in a shadow war for years, with tensions escalating following Israel’s direct attacks last year amid the Gaza conflict.