Iran Not to Join Regional Arms Race: Spokesman

In response to a question about Iran’s plans after the termination of the UN arms embargo, Ali Rabiei said at a press conference on Tuesday, “The Islamic Republic of Iran does not intend to join the arms race in this region, which serves the financial interests of the arms-producing companies.”

“I make it clear that we are concerned about this region turning into a stockpile of weapons, and hold the US accountable for the unbridled sale of arms to the region,” he stressed.

The spokesman then noted that Iran has no special plans for arms trade for now, adding, “Whenever we deem it necessary – considering our legitimate and reasonable defence needs – we will take action in compliance with the customary international law and every state’s inherent right to self-defence.”

The arms embargo on Tehran was founded upon “false Iranophobia”, he stated, saying US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu resorted to a massive Iranophobia campaign to prevent the removal of the arms embargo.

“It basically lacks credibility,” Rabiei said of the arms embargo that was terminated on October 18.

The futile arms sanctions against Iran have only strengthened the country’s self-reliance in the process of manufacturing defense products, he added.

“These sanctions did not restrict Iran’s defence capabilities, nor would the removal of these restrictions today result in any new change in the path we had already taken,” the spokesman said.

“As I mentioned, we have never started any war, and believe that security is ensured through the will of people and self-sufficiency. During the years that we faced the arms embargo, we had no choice but to work on research and development of the indigenous defence industry. After these years, today we enjoy great advantages in manufacturing special defense products, and are prepared to sell them at the request of purchasers with special conditions,” he added.

“We, however, believe that arms are not the solution in the region. Arms are not the solution (to the conflicts) among the countries. What we must rely on is security in light of peace and friendship in the region,” Rabiei stated.

“We have red lines and considerations when it comes to arms trade. Our arms trade doctrine is not different from our defence doctrine,” the spokesperson concluded.