In a telephone conversation on Monday, Araqchi and his Japanese counterpart Toshimitsu Motegi discussed regional developments following the military aggression by the US and the Zionist regime against Iran, as well as its regional and global repercussions.
Referring to the criminal nature of the actions by the US and the Zionist regime in attacking Iran, Araqchi noted that the international community's complacency toward this brutal aggression sets a dangerous precedent in the international system.
"The Islamic Republic of Iran stands with full strength and determination against the military aggression of the US and the Zionist regime and will defend itself. However, this does not negate the responsibility of the international community, including Japan, to explicitly condemn this military aggression and the war crimes committed by the aggressors," Araqchi stated.
"Good relations with neighbors are very important for Iran, but we cannot allow the US to attack us from its bases in the region. Our defensive measures are not directed at neighbors; rather, we target the source and origin of the aggression," he underlined.
"This war is not only against Iran but against the entire region, and the critical conditions in the region, including in the Strait of Hormuz, are a result of the military aggression by the US and the Zionist regime," the Iranian foreign minister added.
For his part, the Japanese foreign minister expressed condolences and sympathy with the Iranian people and voiced concern over the continuation of the crisis and its expansion.
He also emphasized that necessary efforts must be made to reduce tensions. The top Japanese diplomat noted that for this reason, he has been in contact with his counterparts in the region and will continue his efforts in this regard.