Rare photos of Iran’s national football team’s presence at 1998 World Cup
After 20 years of absence, the Iranian national football team succeeded in qualifying for the 1998 World Cup as the 32nd and final team selected. In the group stage of the 1998 World Cup in France, Iran was placed in a group alongside the United States, Germany, and Yugoslavia.
https://en.irna.ir/photo/86178941/
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After 20 years of absence, the Iranian national football team succeeded in qualifying for the 1998 World Cup as the 32nd and final team selected. In the group stage of the 1998 World Cup in France, Iran was placed in a group alongside the United States, Germany, and Yugoslavia.
https://en.irna.ir/photo/86178941/
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🖥 Pezeshkian: Enemy counting on internal division to force Iran into submission
Speaking on Wednesday at a ceremony in Tehran to commemorate martyred Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, Pezeshkian said hostile powers had designed their plans around fueling disagreements inside Iran because they had failed to achieve their objectives through war and intimidation.
“They could not reach their goals through other means and today they hope to achieve their intentions by creating division and discord inside the country,” the president said.
Pezeshkian stressed that Iran would not surrender under pressure, pointing to Gaza’s resistance despite years of war and blockade.
“It is impossible to force a nation into submission through bombing, threats and military pressure,” he said, adding that the Iranian nation would “certainly not surrender.”
The president also underlined the need to preserve national unity, saying differences of opinion should not turn into internal conflict at a time when enemies are seeking to exploit divisions.
He said another objective pursued by Iran’s adversaries was to mobilize Arab and Muslim countries against Tehran, but added that regional diplomacy was moving in the opposite direction and distancing countries in the region from the United States and Israel.
Pezeshkian acknowledged the economic difficulties facing the country under sanctions, saying his administration was trying to ensure shortcomings and mismanagement would not place greater pressure on the Iranian people.
“We are under sanctions, our paths have been blocked, and we are facing a difficult test,” he said.
The president also emphasized the need to move beyond the current “no war, no peace” situation, while reiterating that Iran would not surrender if its territory or national dignity came under attack.
“War is not in the interest of the country, but if they want to violate our dignity, land and territory, we will not submit,” he said.
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📌 Tehran, IRNA – President Masoud Pezeshkian says Iran’s enemies have pinned their hopes on creating internal division and discord after failing to force the country into submission through military threats and pressure.
Speaking on Wednesday at a ceremony in Tehran to commemorate martyred Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, Pezeshkian said hostile powers had designed their plans around fueling disagreements inside Iran because they had failed to achieve their objectives through war and intimidation.
“They could not reach their goals through other means and today they hope to achieve their intentions by creating division and discord inside the country,” the president said.
Pezeshkian stressed that Iran would not surrender under pressure, pointing to Gaza’s resistance despite years of war and blockade.
“It is impossible to force a nation into submission through bombing, threats and military pressure,” he said, adding that the Iranian nation would “certainly not surrender.”
The president also underlined the need to preserve national unity, saying differences of opinion should not turn into internal conflict at a time when enemies are seeking to exploit divisions.
He said another objective pursued by Iran’s adversaries was to mobilize Arab and Muslim countries against Tehran, but added that regional diplomacy was moving in the opposite direction and distancing countries in the region from the United States and Israel.
Pezeshkian acknowledged the economic difficulties facing the country under sanctions, saying his administration was trying to ensure shortcomings and mismanagement would not place greater pressure on the Iranian people.
“We are under sanctions, our paths have been blocked, and we are facing a difficult test,” he said.
The president also emphasized the need to move beyond the current “no war, no peace” situation, while reiterating that Iran would not surrender if its territory or national dignity came under attack.
“War is not in the interest of the country, but if they want to violate our dignity, land and territory, we will not submit,” he said.
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🔻 Erdogan warns Israeli regime poses a threat to Turkey
The Israeli regime has crossed all boundaries and has become a threat to the entire world, he noted. “Israel attacks on Syria and Lebanon have reached a point where they now also constitute a threat to Turkey.”
The Turkish president added that his country does not not turn a blind eye to the targeting of Syria and Lebanon by the Israeli regime, because these two countries are vital to its security.
“If Israel's banditry is not stopped, the entire world, together with the region, will bear the consequences.”
Recently, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan also emphasized that from Israel’s perspective, any agreement between the United States and Iran in its current form does not benefit Israel’s interests; therefore, it is actively working to sabotage the negotiation process.
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📌 Tehran - IRNA - Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has labeled Israel an obstacle to regional peace, warning that its military strikes on Syria and Lebanon pose also a direct threat to Turkey.
The Israeli regime has crossed all boundaries and has become a threat to the entire world, he noted. “Israel attacks on Syria and Lebanon have reached a point where they now also constitute a threat to Turkey.”
The Turkish president added that his country does not not turn a blind eye to the targeting of Syria and Lebanon by the Israeli regime, because these two countries are vital to its security.
“If Israel's banditry is not stopped, the entire world, together with the region, will bear the consequences.”
Recently, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan also emphasized that from Israel’s perspective, any agreement between the United States and Iran in its current form does not benefit Israel’s interests; therefore, it is actively working to sabotage the negotiation process.
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⚡️ Iran’s progress in scientific and defense fields will not stop: Parliament speaker
In a message on Wednesday, commemorating the martyrs of last year’s 12-day Israeli aggression, Ghalibaf noted that the lantern of the Islamic Revolution and the path of the Iranian nation continued to shine brighter than ever, despite cowardly assassinations, and the unequal imposed war.
Emphasizing that the country's scientific and deterrence capabilities remain intact, the top parliamentarian said the Iranian Armed Forces are well-prepared and in combat readiness to respond to any aggression, with determination and without delay.
Iran stood against major powers and proved that victory is achieved through zeal, he underlined, reminding that the nation will find the path and cross the darkness, following the words of the martyred Leader of the Islamic Revolution, Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei.
Recalling the names of some of the top martyred commanders, he said these fallen heroes shaped a nation after years of struggle, courage, and tireless resistance and that their names would remain in the memory of this land forever.
Ghalibaf emphasized in his message that the Iranian nation would finally emerge victorious in the ongoing battles with the enemies, adding that the bright stars of the Iranian sky are once again showing the path to the nation, under the guidance of the Leader of the Islamic Revolution, Ayatollah Seyyed Mojtaba Hosseini Khamenei.
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📌 Tehran, IRNA – Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, referring to the US-Israeli imposed war on the country and the martyrdom of several commanders and scientists, says those great losses would not stop Iran from advancing on its scientific and defense deterrence capabilities.
In a message on Wednesday, commemorating the martyrs of last year’s 12-day Israeli aggression, Ghalibaf noted that the lantern of the Islamic Revolution and the path of the Iranian nation continued to shine brighter than ever, despite cowardly assassinations, and the unequal imposed war.
Emphasizing that the country's scientific and deterrence capabilities remain intact, the top parliamentarian said the Iranian Armed Forces are well-prepared and in combat readiness to respond to any aggression, with determination and without delay.
Iran stood against major powers and proved that victory is achieved through zeal, he underlined, reminding that the nation will find the path and cross the darkness, following the words of the martyred Leader of the Islamic Revolution, Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei.
Recalling the names of some of the top martyred commanders, he said these fallen heroes shaped a nation after years of struggle, courage, and tireless resistance and that their names would remain in the memory of this land forever.
Ghalibaf emphasized in his message that the Iranian nation would finally emerge victorious in the ongoing battles with the enemies, adding that the bright stars of the Iranian sky are once again showing the path to the nation, under the guidance of the Leader of the Islamic Revolution, Ayatollah Seyyed Mojtaba Hosseini Khamenei.
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📡 Iran’s president congratulates Kyrgyzstan on non-permanent UNSC membership
In his message, Pezeshkian hailed Kyrgyzstan’s victory for the 2027–2028 term as a clear indication of the international community’s trust and respect for Kyrgyzstan’s constructive role in regional and global affairs.
“The Islamic Republic of Iran is confident that Kyrgyzstan’s presence on the Security Council will help ensure that the perspectives and concerns of developing countries and emerging regions—including Central Asia—are better reflected in international decision-making,” the Iranian president stated.
He added that Kyrgyzstan’s new role would effectively contribute to consolidating peace, stability, and sustainable development at both the regional and global levels.
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📌 Tehran, IRNA - President Masoud Pezeshkian has extended his congratulations to his Kyrgyz counterpart, Sadyr Japarov, and the people of Kyrgyzstan on the Central Asian country’s election as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council.
In his message, Pezeshkian hailed Kyrgyzstan’s victory for the 2027–2028 term as a clear indication of the international community’s trust and respect for Kyrgyzstan’s constructive role in regional and global affairs.
“The Islamic Republic of Iran is confident that Kyrgyzstan’s presence on the Security Council will help ensure that the perspectives and concerns of developing countries and emerging regions—including Central Asia—are better reflected in international decision-making,” the Iranian president stated.
He added that Kyrgyzstan’s new role would effectively contribute to consolidating peace, stability, and sustainable development at both the regional and global levels.
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📄 Iran government pursues sanctions neutralization, economic resilience: President
Speaking at a meeting with university professors, economists and academic experts on Wednesday, Pezeshkian said the government was committed to mitigating the effects of sanctions and regional tensions through economic management and structural reforms.
“The effects of sanctions on the country’s economy are undeniable,” Pezeshkian said. “However, the government is moving seriously along the path of neutralizing sanctions, increasing economic resilience and utilizing domestic capacities.”
The president said reforming the system for supplying and allocating foreign currency for essential goods had been one of the government’s key decisions to ensure food security and prevent rent-seeking, corruption and trade misreporting. He said the positive results of the policy were evident in the stable supply of basic goods.
Pezeshkian also highlighted the role of universities in improving productivity, reducing poverty and unemployment, enhancing health indicators and promoting balanced regional development. He said universities should play a greater role in addressing local and regional challenges alongside their educational and research responsibilities.
The government plans to delegate more authority to universities where possible, while continuing to oversee national policymaking, he added.
Addressing energy-sector imbalances, Pezeshkian said the government would not allow disruptions to people’s daily lives despite damage to infrastructure, citing ongoing planning and management efforts.
He also identified the expansion of ties with neighboring and regional countries as a government priority, saying effective steps had been taken in recent months to reduce disputes, strengthen regional cooperation and deepen relations with neighboring and Islamic countries.
Commenting on Western countries’ approach to Iran’s nuclear program, Pezeshkian said accusations that Iran is seeking nuclear weapons were being used as a pretext to exert pressure on Iran and undermine its economy. He said public vigilance, government efforts and the country’s armed forces had prevented those objectives from being achieved.
Pezeshkian added that Iran would continue to rely on its domestic capabilities, particularly the expertise of academics, specialists and young people, to overcome sanctions and external pressures.
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📌 Tehran, IRNA – President Masoud Pezeshkian says that while the impact of sanctions on the country’s economy could not be denied, his administration was pursuing policies aimed at neutralizing sanctions, strengthening economic resilience and making greater use of domestic capacities.
Speaking at a meeting with university professors, economists and academic experts on Wednesday, Pezeshkian said the government was committed to mitigating the effects of sanctions and regional tensions through economic management and structural reforms.
“The effects of sanctions on the country’s economy are undeniable,” Pezeshkian said. “However, the government is moving seriously along the path of neutralizing sanctions, increasing economic resilience and utilizing domestic capacities.”
The president said reforming the system for supplying and allocating foreign currency for essential goods had been one of the government’s key decisions to ensure food security and prevent rent-seeking, corruption and trade misreporting. He said the positive results of the policy were evident in the stable supply of basic goods.
Pezeshkian also highlighted the role of universities in improving productivity, reducing poverty and unemployment, enhancing health indicators and promoting balanced regional development. He said universities should play a greater role in addressing local and regional challenges alongside their educational and research responsibilities.
The government plans to delegate more authority to universities where possible, while continuing to oversee national policymaking, he added.
Addressing energy-sector imbalances, Pezeshkian said the government would not allow disruptions to people’s daily lives despite damage to infrastructure, citing ongoing planning and management efforts.
He also identified the expansion of ties with neighboring and regional countries as a government priority, saying effective steps had been taken in recent months to reduce disputes, strengthen regional cooperation and deepen relations with neighboring and Islamic countries.
Commenting on Western countries’ approach to Iran’s nuclear program, Pezeshkian said accusations that Iran is seeking nuclear weapons were being used as a pretext to exert pressure on Iran and undermine its economy. He said public vigilance, government efforts and the country’s armed forces had prevented those objectives from being achieved.
Pezeshkian added that Iran would continue to rely on its domestic capabilities, particularly the expertise of academics, specialists and young people, to overcome sanctions and external pressures.
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🔻 Iran, Russia and China rap US-backed anti-Tehran draft resolution at IAEA BoG
The statement, which was read out by the Russian representative during the Board of Governors meeting on Wednesday, described the anti-Iran move as political, untimely and unconstructive, urging all members to carefully consider the implications of the draft and refrain from supporting it.
It noted that the draft was pushed under the pretext of “supporting” the IAEA’s director general, but the main intention was to pile up more pressure on Iran and destabilize the already fragile situation in West Asia. Iran, China and Russia warned that the US-E3 action risks further weakening cooperation between the IAEA and Tehran, as well as the jeopardizes ongoing diplomatic efforts to bring peace to the region.
The statement also recalled that the IAEA chief, in his report, had not recommended any action by the Board of Governors and therefore, the proposed draft resolution tis premature, unconstructive and politically motivated. The joint statement further rejected the agenda related to the “implementation of the Safeguards Agreement and related provisions of the Security Council resolutions on Iran,” arguing that all provisions of Resolution 2231 had expired on October 18, 2025 and thus the attempt by the three European countries to activate the so-called “snapback” mechanism under the same resolution is null and void, without any legal effect.
Iran, China and Russia also opposed any attempt to mislead member states on the status of Iran’s nuclear program, including through the reports of the IAEA chief. Recalling Iran’s long-standing commitment to nuclear non-proliferation as a state party to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, the joint statement reiterated the need for the full and effective realization of the inalienable right of states to develop research, production and use of nuclear energy for peaceful purposes.
Iran, China and Russia further warned that repeated attacks on Iran’s safeguarded facilities and sites containing nuclear material, coupled with continued threats of aggression, had undermined the foundations of the NPT and created a situation unprecedented in the history of the Agency.
The statement concluded by emphasizing that a lasting resolution to the current situation is only possible through an immediate and permanent end to all attacks, the elimination of threats of further aggression, and the avoidance of any positions or demands that are inconsistent with the inherent and inalienable rights of member states.
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📌 Tehran, IRNA – Representatives of Iran, China and Russia to the UN Office in Vienna, in a joint statement, criticize the United States and three European countries – Britain, France and Germany, collectively known as E3 – for pushing an anti-Tehran draft resolution at the Board of Governors of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
The statement, which was read out by the Russian representative during the Board of Governors meeting on Wednesday, described the anti-Iran move as political, untimely and unconstructive, urging all members to carefully consider the implications of the draft and refrain from supporting it.
It noted that the draft was pushed under the pretext of “supporting” the IAEA’s director general, but the main intention was to pile up more pressure on Iran and destabilize the already fragile situation in West Asia. Iran, China and Russia warned that the US-E3 action risks further weakening cooperation between the IAEA and Tehran, as well as the jeopardizes ongoing diplomatic efforts to bring peace to the region.
The statement also recalled that the IAEA chief, in his report, had not recommended any action by the Board of Governors and therefore, the proposed draft resolution tis premature, unconstructive and politically motivated. The joint statement further rejected the agenda related to the “implementation of the Safeguards Agreement and related provisions of the Security Council resolutions on Iran,” arguing that all provisions of Resolution 2231 had expired on October 18, 2025 and thus the attempt by the three European countries to activate the so-called “snapback” mechanism under the same resolution is null and void, without any legal effect.
Iran, China and Russia also opposed any attempt to mislead member states on the status of Iran’s nuclear program, including through the reports of the IAEA chief. Recalling Iran’s long-standing commitment to nuclear non-proliferation as a state party to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, the joint statement reiterated the need for the full and effective realization of the inalienable right of states to develop research, production and use of nuclear energy for peaceful purposes.
Iran, China and Russia further warned that repeated attacks on Iran’s safeguarded facilities and sites containing nuclear material, coupled with continued threats of aggression, had undermined the foundations of the NPT and created a situation unprecedented in the history of the Agency.
The statement concluded by emphasizing that a lasting resolution to the current situation is only possible through an immediate and permanent end to all attacks, the elimination of threats of further aggression, and the avoidance of any positions or demands that are inconsistent with the inherent and inalienable rights of member states.
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📡 Iran says World Cup must not be used as pretext for discrimination against nations
Baghaei, writing in Persian on X on Wednesday, referred to reports of inappropriate treatment of players and coaching staff from some national football teams at US entry points.
Football is a platform for fair competition and bringing nations closer together, not an excuse to reopen old grudges and settle political scores, he said. “The World Cup is meant to be a global celebration of football, not an opportunity to humiliate and discriminate against other nations.”
The spokesman said reports of improper treatment of players, referees and football guests arriving in the United States stood in contrast to the warm and respectful reception provided by Mexico to visiting teams.
Baghaei argued that successful hosting should be measured not by grand stadiums or political publicity, but by the way visitors are treated.
“Good hosting is not defined by magnificent venues or political showmanship,” he said. “It is measured by humane behavior and the ability to make guests feel welcome.”
He added that a host nation’s reputation is shaped not only by its sporting infrastructure but also by the quality of its treatment of those who travel there for football.
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📌 Tehran, IRNA – Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei has criticized the United States’ role as a host of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, saying the tournament should not become a pretext for discrimination or mistreatment of athletes and representatives of participating nations.
Baghaei, writing in Persian on X on Wednesday, referred to reports of inappropriate treatment of players and coaching staff from some national football teams at US entry points.
Football is a platform for fair competition and bringing nations closer together, not an excuse to reopen old grudges and settle political scores, he said. “The World Cup is meant to be a global celebration of football, not an opportunity to humiliate and discriminate against other nations.”
The spokesman said reports of improper treatment of players, referees and football guests arriving in the United States stood in contrast to the warm and respectful reception provided by Mexico to visiting teams.
Baghaei argued that successful hosting should be measured not by grand stadiums or political publicity, but by the way visitors are treated.
“Good hosting is not defined by magnificent venues or political showmanship,” he said. “It is measured by humane behavior and the ability to make guests feel welcome.”
He added that a host nation’s reputation is shaped not only by its sporting infrastructure but also by the quality of its treatment of those who travel there for football.
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📡 Armed Forces will deliver more crushing response to any threats: Spokesperson
Speaking at a ceremony marking the first anniversary of those martyred in the 12-day US-Israeli-imposed war against Iran, Brigadier General Abolfazl Shekarchi said Iran had consistently demonstrated its willingness to respond decisively to threats.
“As we have proven, we will respond to every threat with a harsher, stronger and more crushing response than before,” Shekarchi said.
Referring to US President Donald Trump, Shekarchi said every threat issued by Trump had been met with a “a teeth-shattering response” from Iran.
He added that Iran would not retreat in the face of the global system of domination, specifically naming Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
“There is no cause for concern,” Shekarchi said, adding that with God’s help, Iran will emerge victorious.
He said Iran had resolved to overcome its adversaries and expressed confidence that they would ultimately suffer defeat.
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📌 Tehran, IRNA – A senior spokesperson for Iran’s Armed Forces said on Wednesday that Tehran would respond to any threats with even greater force, reiterating the Islamic Republic’s determination to confront external pressure and hostile actions.
Speaking at a ceremony marking the first anniversary of those martyred in the 12-day US-Israeli-imposed war against Iran, Brigadier General Abolfazl Shekarchi said Iran had consistently demonstrated its willingness to respond decisively to threats.
“As we have proven, we will respond to every threat with a harsher, stronger and more crushing response than before,” Shekarchi said.
Referring to US President Donald Trump, Shekarchi said every threat issued by Trump had been met with a “a teeth-shattering response” from Iran.
He added that Iran would not retreat in the face of the global system of domination, specifically naming Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
“There is no cause for concern,” Shekarchi said, adding that with God’s help, Iran will emerge victorious.
He said Iran had resolved to overcome its adversaries and expressed confidence that they would ultimately suffer defeat.
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🔊 Pezeshkian: Threats to target critical infrastructure shows desperation against will of Iranian nation
The Iranian President wrote in a post on his X account that critical infrastructure is the lifeblood of the people, adding that threatening to target them, from transportation networks to electricity and water utilities, is not a show of strength but a sign of desperation in the face of a nation's will.
President Pezeshkian pointed out that Iran will remain steadfast against any pressure and threat, relying on the knowledge and ability of experts, national unity, and solidarity.
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📌 Tehran, IRNA – President Masoud Pezeshkian says the threat to target critical infrastructure is not a show of power, but a sign of desperation against the will of a nation.
The Iranian President wrote in a post on his X account that critical infrastructure is the lifeblood of the people, adding that threatening to target them, from transportation networks to electricity and water utilities, is not a show of strength but a sign of desperation in the face of a nation's will.
President Pezeshkian pointed out that Iran will remain steadfast against any pressure and threat, relying on the knowledge and ability of experts, national unity, and solidarity.
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🎙 Baqaei: US attacked Iranian nation's pulse of life
Baqaei wrote in a post on his X account that Water is the pulse of life and the US is deliberately targetting the lifeblood of the Iranian people.
He pointed out that as part of its aggression against Iran, the US military has deliberately struck vital civilian water infrastructure in Sirik, Hormozgan, destroying two reservoirs with a 500 cubic meters.
These facilities supplied drinking water to more than 20,000 residents across ten villages, Baqaei added.
The senior diplomat reiterated that this is not collateral damage, it is a calculated war crime and a flagrant violation of human rights and international humanitarian law.
He emphasized that the US must be held accountable for committing such systematic brutal attacks on civilian life-sustaining infrastructure.
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📌 Tehran, IRNA – Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei condemns US military attacks on Iranian water structure in Sirik, Hormozgan Province.
Baqaei wrote in a post on his X account that Water is the pulse of life and the US is deliberately targetting the lifeblood of the Iranian people.
He pointed out that as part of its aggression against Iran, the US military has deliberately struck vital civilian water infrastructure in Sirik, Hormozgan, destroying two reservoirs with a 500 cubic meters.
These facilities supplied drinking water to more than 20,000 residents across ten villages, Baqaei added.
The senior diplomat reiterated that this is not collateral damage, it is a calculated war crime and a flagrant violation of human rights and international humanitarian law.
He emphasized that the US must be held accountable for committing such systematic brutal attacks on civilian life-sustaining infrastructure.
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