'Punishment of Israel is needed' to prevent further destabilization: Iran's Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Nasser Kanani said that Tehran is not considering escalating regional tension, but believes “punishment against Israel is necessary” in order to prevent further destabilization.

Other points Kanani pointed out:

The assassination of Ismail Haneh in Tehran is a violation of international law.

Iran reserves the right to protect its own security and sovereignty over its land.

Tehran has the right to discipline and deter Israel and stop its crimes.

Prior to this, a report on the US news site “Axios” quoted three anonymous sources and reported that US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a conference call with G7 participating countries that Iran and Hezbollah may begin attacks against Israel as early as today.

The G7 (Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, and the United Kingdom also participated) issued a statement, expressed “deep concern over heightened tension in the Middle East,” and called for restraint from all sides.