Iran’s top envoy in London claims Netanyahu’s actions aim to draw the West into a major Middle Eastern War

Iran’s chargé d’affaires in London, Seyed Mehdi Hosseini Matin, has issued a stark warning that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is attempting to ensnare Western nations in a widespread conflict across the Middle East. In a charged interview, Matin accused Netanyahu of orchestrating tensions to prolong his political tenure through warfare. This allegation follows a severe exchange of missile and drone attacks between Iran and Israel, escalating regional tensions.

Matin articulated concerns over Netanyahu’s strategy, suggesting that it could lead to unmanageable consequences for both the region and the global community. He asserted, “This is a good opportunity for Western countries to demonstrate that they are rational actors, and they are not going to be entrapped by Netanyahu and his goal, which is to be in power for as long as he could actually stay in power.”

Amidst escalating military actions, Matin vowed that Iran would deliver a prompt and forceful response if Israel committed further aggressions. He highlighted recent Iranian military actions as defensive responses to an Israeli airstrike that targeted the Iranian consulate in Damascus, killing several officers of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. 

“The response to the next mistake of the Zionist will not take 12 days’ time. It will be decided as soon as we see what the hostile regime has done. It will be immediate and without warning. It will be stronger and more severe,” Martin explained, emphasizing Iran’s readiness to escalate its military responses.

The Iranian diplomat also addressed the Western response to the conflict, criticizing the lack of a unified stance against what he views as provocative Israeli actions. Despite the significant military engagement from Iran, Matin reiterated that Iran’s operations avoided civilian targets and nuclear ambitions, focusing solely on military responses to perceived Israeli aggressions.

Western powers, including the US and EU, have hinted at further sanctions against Iran, urging restraint and diplomatic engagement to avoid further escalations. Meanwhile, the UK Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak, has advocated for calm, stressing the need for de-escalation in conversations with Netanyahu.

Matin’s comments reflect a broader Iranian strategy to shift the narrative from regional skirmishes to a discussion on the long-term role of Western powers in Middle Eastern politics. He suggested that increasing military capabilities demonstrated by Iran during the conflict should serve as a deterrent against further external threats to its sovereignty.

As the situation develops, Matin’s stark warnings underscore the fragile balance of power in the Middle East and the potential for further conflict if diplomatic solutions are not pursued.