Addressing a group of journalists in Colombo, Ambassador Delkhosh said Iran possesses sufficient capabilities to respond independently to any aggression. His remarks came amid heightened tensions between Tehran and Washington, following criticism by the U.S. over Iran’s handling of recent protests triggered by the sharp depreciation of the Iranian rial.
“If the United States does something wrong against Iran, we have our own capabilities. We do not rely on any other country,” Delkhosh said, speaking at his residence near the United Nations office in Colombo.
He stressed that Iran would not seek external military assistance in the event of an attack, adding that Tehran has its own defensive options. The ambassador also warned that U.S. military bases in the region would be considered legitimate targets if Iran were attacked, while urging neighbouring countries to remain alert.
Delkhosh further criticised U.S. President Donald Trump, accusing him of disregarding international law. He said no country has the legal right to attack another based on political disagreements and described U.S. threats against Iran as unlawful attempts to dictate terms to Tehran.
“Iran is ready for negotiations, but they must be conducted on the basis of equality,” he said.
Referring to President Trump’s public statements, Delkhosh claimed the U.S. leader does not adhere to international legal norms. “He is a person of tweets. His position changes depending on the time,” the envoy said.
Commenting on the recent unrest in Iran, Delkhosh said protests that began on December 28 over genuine economic grievances were later hijacked by foreign intelligence agencies. He alleged that violence escalated only after foreign-backed elements began attacking police and armed forces.
He further claimed that some individuals were financially incentivised to carry out acts of violence, including killings, injuries, and arson targeting public and private property. “We know who paid and who received the money,” he said, adding that some Iranian nationals were involved.
International media reports have stated that nationwide protests, which spread across all 31 provinces and peaked in early January, were largely suppressed following a heavy security crackdown that included mass arrests and internet restrictions. However, Iranian authorities have disputed foreign estimates of casualties, maintaining that security forces acted in response to armed violence.
Ambassador Delkhosh reiterated that Iran would respond decisively to any external military action and said the country’s defensive strength is now stronger than before.
