Iran Warns Countries Against Naval or Logistical Support for U.S. Operations

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei warned on Thursday, November 12, against other countries providing naval units, military equipment, logistical assistance or personnel for American military action against Iran. The ministry said his statement addressed reports of countries considering involvement in regional developments and the Strait of Hormuz under U.S. pressure. Baqaei argued that describing such participation as protecting shipping or combating piracy would not change Iran's characterization of it as hostile and unlawful. Invoking Article 2(4) of the UN Charter and General Assembly Resolution 3314, he maintained that bilateral agreements with Washington did not permit countries to violate their international obligations or join military action against Iran. He warned that participating governments would bear responsibility for the consequences. Separately, G7 foreign ministers and the EU High Representative had condemned Iranian attacks on neighboring countries and civilian vessels, as well as obstruction of transit through Hormuz. Their November 11 declaration, following meetings in Paris on November 9–10, backed safe passage without tolls or other illegal restrictions. It described U.S. Central Command's demining and civilian-ship escorts as defensive activities. The G7 also recognized an independent, defensive French–British multinational initiative, including verification of mine removal, as potentially important for restoring shipping. The ministers supported diplomacy toward a lasting settlement addressing Iran's nuclear program and regional security. They said Iran must never acquire nuclear weapons and urged it to stop supporting armed groups in the region.