ROME, November 14. /TASS/. Tehran seeks mutual respect in international relations, but Europe continues to position itself above Iran, making a significant error, Iranian Ambassador to Italy Mohammad Reza Saburi told TASS in an interview.
"Europe’s greatest — or rather, strategic — mistake is its tendency to view Iran through a narrow, self-serving lens. This creates a sense of superiority, with Europe placing itself above Iran, a nation with a rich history spanning thousands of years, a civilization that has never bowed to anyone," the diplomat stated.
By imposing sanctions against Iran, including on Iran Air (IR), Europe is undermining its own principles of human rights, Saburi argued. "These measures target the Iranian people and have a devastating effect on trade relations between Iran and the European Union (EU), not to mention deepening the divide between the citizens," he said. The Iranian ambassador expressed hope that other nations would reconsider their positions and reinstate economic and cultural cooperation.
European leadership should also rethink its approach to the Palestinian issue, Saburi added. "The people of Palestine and the wider Middle East should not be forced to bear the consequences of US and European support for Israel’s actions." "European nations must acknowledge the Palestinian people's right to live on their ancestral land, support their struggle, and end the policy of indifference to Israel’s war crimes," the Iranian ambassador emphasized.
Iran is prepared for any eventuality in the Middle East and will always act to protect its sovereignty, the ambassador stated. "However, Iran has never sought to escalate conflicts. We do not desire war or heightened tensions, as our actions since last October [following the escalation between Israel and Palestine] demonstrate. We are making extensive efforts to mitigate this crisis and prevent its spread to other countries in the region. We have shown strategic patience, despite Israel’s numerous violations," the diplomat added.