The Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran to Nigeria, Gholamreza Ahdavi Raja, has berated the United States President, Donald Trump, over his statement that he would be involved in determining Iran’s leadership following the death of the country’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, in Saturday’s attack.
Speaking at a press conference in Abuja on Thursday, Raja stated that Iran would independently determine its leadership and political future, free of foreign interference.
He insisted that Iran would not allow external influence in its domestic affairs.
“The United States is always interfering in our domestic issues. We are an independent country. We will not let the United States interfere in our domestic affairs,” he said.
The ambassador’s comments followed remarks by Trump after the confirmation of the Supreme Leader’s death.
He also cited Article 51 of the Charter, asserting Iran’s right to self-defence.
“The Islamic Republic of Iran, in accordance with Article 51 of the UN Charter, has the inherent and legitimate right to defend itself against armed aggression. Iran’s defensive measures are exercised strictly within this legal and rightful framework,” he said.
He also highlighted civilian infrastructure, including schools and hospitals, which he said were affected by the attacks, describing the actions as clear violations of international humanitarian law.
“Let me state clearly: targeting children in a school is not a wartime accident; it is an unmistakable war crime,” he said.
He further stated that the attacks occurred while Iran was engaged in diplomatic negotiations with the United States.
“At the time these attacks occurred, Iran was actively engaged in diplomatic negotiations with the United States. Yet, once again, the United States chose to carry out a military attack in the midst of an ongoing diplomatic process,” he said.
While emphasising that Iran seeks peace and stability in the region, the envoy said the country would defend its sovereignty.
“We are committed to defending ourselves, and we will do all that we can, but Iran is not a country seeking war. We are seeking peace and stability for the region,” he said.