Iran-Israel Conflict: Khamenei Summons UK, French, German Envoys Over 'Double Standards'

The ambassadors of Britain, France, and Germany were summoned by Iran's foreign ministry to be questioned about what was termed as their "irresponsible stance" regarding Tehran's retaliatory strikes on Israel, as reported by the semi-official Iranian Labour News Agency, on Sunday.

The drone and missile attack by Iran against Israel, which occurred from Saturday night into Sunday, has been condemned by the three European countries, as reported by Hindustan Times citing Reuters. This attack was in retaliation for Israel's bombing of Iran's consulate in Syria on April 1.

Photo Credit: PTI

Khaminei Summons UK, French and German

The director for Western Europe at Iran's foreign ministry accused the three countries of "double standards" as they opposed a Russian-drafted U.N. Security Council statement earlier this month that would have condemned Israel's attack on Iran's embassy compound in Syria.

"It is contended by the official that Iran's military action against the Zionist regime's (Israel) bases is well within the framework of the right to legitimate defence stipulated in Article 51 of the United Nations Charter and it is in response to a series of crimes, including the recent attack on the embassy compound in Syria," as reported by Reuters.

Later on Sunday, the G7, which includes France, Germany, and the United Kingdom, is expected to hold a video call to discuss Iran's recent attack.

What has happened so far

The recent conflict between Israel and Iran escalated with Iran's retaliatory strikes on Israel, prompting international reactions and warnings, as reported by Hindustan Times. Here are the key developments:

• Iran launched a barrage of missiles and drones towards Israel from several countries, including Iran, Iraq, Syria, and Yemen, which were intercepted by US forces.
• US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin reaffirmed America's commitment to supporting Israel's defense amid the escalating tensions.
• The United States strongly condemned Iran's actions and called for an immediate halt to further hostilities, urging Iran to de-escalate the situation.
• President Joe Biden condemned Iran's assault on Israel and announced plans to convene with G7 leaders for a diplomatic response.
• Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed the successful repulsion of the attack and vowed to defend against further threats.
• Israel's military spokesperson described Iran's actions as serious, highlighting successful interceptions of incoming missiles.
• Iran justified its strikes as retaliation for perceived Israeli offenses and warned of more severe responses if provoked further.
• International condemnation came from the European Union, Britain, Japan, Czech Republic, Denmark, France, Mexico, the Netherlands, and Norway.
• Israel reported a 99% success rate in intercepting the threats from Iran, emphasizing their capability to defend against such attacks.
• Israel's Defense Minister expressed gratitude for US support and emphasized the need for continued vigilance to protect Israeli citizens.
• Iran's Revolutionary Guard issued a stern warning to the United States against actions deemed harmful to Iran's interests.
• India expressed deep concerns over the escalating tensions, urging both parties to de-escalate and pursue diplomatic solutions for peace and security.
• The conflict underscores heightened regional tensions and the international community's call for restraint and diplomatic resolutions to prevent further escalation.