The Ambassador of the Iran to Nigeria, Gholamreza Raja, has criticised a recent resolution by the United Nations Security Council condemning Iran’s actions in the Gulf region, describing it as biased and politically driven.
Speaking in an interview with Punch Online on Monday, the envoy argued that the resolution failed to capture the full context of the crisis and overlooked what he described as acts of aggression against Iran.
According to Raja, the measure which called for an immediate halt to hostilities and condemned Iran’s alleged attacks on key infrastructure across the Gulf—did not address the underlying causes of the conflict.
“The Islamic Republic of Iran considers the recent resolution adopted by the United Nations Security Council, which condemns Iran’s defensive actions in response to regional developments, as a one-sided and politically motivated measure that does not reflect the realities on the ground,” Raja said.
“The resolution has been drafted without due regard to the root causes of the crisis and the acts of aggression carried out against the Islamic Republic of Iran, and therefore represents yet another example of a selective approach and double standards within the Security Council,” he added.
The ambassador maintained that Iran’s military actions were conducted in line with international law, particularly the right to self-defence as recognised by the UN Charter.
“The Islamic Republic of Iran reiterates that the measures taken were solely within the framework of its inherent right to self-defence in accordance with Article 51 of the United Nations Charter,” he stated.
Raja further argued that the escalation of tensions in the region was largely the result of provocative actions by other parties.
“It is evident that the responsibility for escalating tensions in the region lies with those parties whose provocative and aggressive actions have contributed to instability and insecurity,” he said.
He also reiterated Iran’s position that dialogue and diplomacy remain the best path toward resolving conflicts.
“The Islamic Republic of Iran has consistently emphasised the importance of respecting the principles of international law, preserving regional peace and stability, and resolving disputes through dialogue and diplomatic means, while at the same time reserving its legitimate right to defend its sovereignty, security and territorial integrity,” he noted.
The United Nations Security Council last week adopted a resolution condemning Iran’s attacks on countries in the Gulf region and Jordan, urging Tehran to immediately halt hostilities.
The resolution, introduced by Bahrain and backed by 135 UN member states, was adopted with 13 votes in favour, while Russia and China abstained.
The Council reaffirmed its support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of states belonging to the Gulf Cooperation Council and Jordan.
It also condemned what it described as “egregious attacks by the Islamic Republic of Iran” on Gulf countries and Jordan, warning that such actions violate international law and threaten global peace and security.
The resolution further criticised the targeting of civilian infrastructure, including ports and energy facilities, noting that the attacks resulted in casualties and damage to buildings.
Meanwhile, Qatar has submitted another complaint to the United Nations, accusing Iran of repeated missile and drone attacks on its territory.
According to the Qatar Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the country filed its eighth formal complaint to the UN and the Security Council through its Permanent Representative, Sheikha Alya Ahmed bin Saif Al-Thani.
The complaint warned that the alleged attacks represent a serious escalation with implications for regional stability.
“This aggression constitutes a blatant violation of its national sovereignty, a direct threat to its security and territorial integrity, and an unacceptable escalation that jeopardises the security and stability of the region,” the letter stated.
Responding to the allegations, Raja insisted that Iran’s operations were aimed strictly at military targets linked to the United States.
“The Islamic Republic of Iran reiterates that its actions were directed solely at military targets associated with the United States and were carried out within the framework of its inherent right to self-defence under Article 51 of the United Nations Charter,” he said.
He added that Iran has no intention of attacking neighbouring states and remains committed to maintaining good relations with countries in the region.
“The Islamic Republic of Iran has no intention of targeting neighbouring countries and continues to attach great importance to its friendly relations and good-neighbourly ties with the countries of the region, including the State of Qatar,” Raja said.
The ambassador also argued that the presence of foreign military bases in the region has contributed significantly to the ongoing tensions.
“The Islamic Republic of Iran remains committed to maintaining regional stability and emphasises that dialogue, mutual respect and adherence to international law are essential for ensuring peace and security in the region,” he added.
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