Iran’s Foreign Minister has publicly defended Tehran’s regional missile strikes in a new interview with NBC News, describing the attacks on US military assets across the Middle East as a legitimate act of self‑defence. The remarks come amid escalating tensions following the joint US–Israeli assault on Iranian territory, an operation that triggered a wave of Iranian retaliation across multiple Gulf states.
Speaking in a calm but firm tone, the minister insisted that Iran “had no choice” but to respond after what he described as unprovoked aggression by Washington and Tel Aviv. He reiterated that Iran’s military actions would continue “as long as necessary” to ensure the country’s security.
“We Are Able to Protect Ourselves” — Iran Reaffirms Its Military Capability
During the interview, the foreign minister emphasized that Iran possesses the capability and determination to defend its sovereignty. “We are able to protect ourselves,” he said, rejecting any suggestion that Iran might be overwhelmed by the scale of the confrontation.
He also confirmed that Ayatollah Khamenei is alive, responding directly to circulating rumors about the Supreme Leader’s condition. The minister dismissed the speculation as “wishful thinking” by Iran’s adversaries.
Outreach to Gulf Neighbours: “We Explained Our Position”
In a notable diplomatic detail, the minister revealed that Iran has been in direct contact with neighbouring Gulf states, informing them of the reasons behind its strikes on US bases located within their territories.
According to his statements, Tehran communicated that:
the attacks were not directed at Gulf governments,
Iran considers only US military assets as legitimate targets,
and the operation was carried out strictly under the principle of self‑defence.
He expressed regret for any collateral impact on the region but insisted that Iran’s actions were a necessary response to the earlier US–Israeli offensive.
Message to the American Public: “There Is No Limit to Our Right to Defend Ourselves”
When asked what message he wished to send to the American people, the minister delivered one of the interview’s most striking lines: “There is no limit to our right to defend ourselves.”
He stressed that Iran does not seek conflict with civilians or nations, but that the United States must acknowledge its role in escalating the situation. “It was the United States and Israel that attacked us first,” he said, framing Iran’s response as a direct consequence of foreign aggression.
A Region on the Brink: Context Behind the Interview
The interview comes at a moment of extreme volatility across the Middle East. In recent days, Iran has launched missiles toward:
Bahrain,
Kuwait,
Qatar,
the United Arab Emirates,
all of which host US military installations. Explosions were heard in Manama, smoke rose over parts of Bahrain, and the UAE reported one casualty in Abu Dhabi after missile interceptions. In Dubai, a fire broke out on the Palm Islands following multiple blasts.
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has claimed that all US and Israeli military targets in the region have been struck.
What the Interview Signals
The NBC interview marks one of Iran’s clearest public justifications for its actions since the escalation began. Three key messages stand out:
Iran sees itself as the victim of aggression, not the initiator.
Tehran is prepared for prolonged confrontation if attacks continue.
Diplomatic channels with Gulf neighbours remain open, despite the regional fallout.
The coming days will reveal whether this communication effort helps de‑escalate tensions — or signals that the conflict is entering a more dangerous phase.