Iran Defends Strikes on U.S. Assets in Persian Gulf as Self-Defense Under International Law

TEHRAN, July 13 (AP) — Iran's Foreign Ministry stated Sunday that its military strikes targeting United States bases and assets in the southern Persian Gulf constitute a legitimate exercise of self-defense under international law.

The declaration came from an Iranian foreign ministry spokesman during a press briefing on Monday morning local time. The official asserted that Tehran acted within its inherent rights to protect national sovereignty following what it described as escalating threats against its territory and maritime interests. The statement did not specify the exact nature or scale of the attacks, but confirmed they were directed at American military infrastructure located in the strategic waterway.

The southern Persian Gulf remains a critical chokepoint for global energy shipments, hosting significant naval assets from both nations. Tensions in the region have been high following recent diplomatic breakdowns and increased naval patrols by U.S. forces operating alongside regional allies. The Iranian government has long maintained that its military posture is reactive to external aggression, framing any kinetic action as a necessary measure to deter further incursions.

International law generally recognizes self-defense as a fundamental right of sovereign states when faced with an armed attack. However, the application of this principle in complex geopolitical scenarios often sparks debate regarding proportionality and immediacy. The Iranian ministry's statement emphasized that its actions were measured and strictly confined to defensive necessities, rejecting accusations that the strikes represented unprovoked aggression.

The United States has not yet issued a formal public response detailing its assessment of the incident or outlining potential countermeasures. American officials typically reserve judgment until intelligence assessments are completed regarding the extent of any damage and the specific origins of the attack vectors. The lack of an immediate U.S. statement leaves uncertainty surrounding whether diplomatic channels remain open for de-escalation.

Regional allies have urged caution, warning that miscalculations in the narrow waterways could rapidly escalate into a broader conflict with global economic repercussions. Shipping companies operating in the area are closely monitoring developments as they assess risks to commercial vessels and supply chains.

As of Sunday evening, there were no confirmed reports of casualties or significant structural damage from either side. The situation remains fluid, with both nations maintaining heightened military readiness along their respective borders and naval zones. Questions remain regarding whether this exchange marks a new phase in the ongoing standoff or if it will be contained through back-channel diplomacy.

Analysts note that while Iran has framed its actions as defensive, the international community is watching closely to see how Washington interprets the legality of Tehran's claims under Article 51 of the United Nations Charter. The coming days are expected to determine whether diplomatic efforts can prevent further military engagement in one of the world's most volatile regions.