"If European countries join the war, they will be struck" — Tehran
It has been stated that any action by Europeans against Iran will be evaluated as an "act of war."
In an official statement issued on Tuesday, Tehran called on European states not to join a war against Iran.
The statement came after some European countries suggested they might consider self-defense measures, taking into account Iran's missile capabilities.
The statement emphasized that such a step would be perceived as a direct threat and that Iran's retaliatory strikes would be expanded to target European countries and cities.
"Europe's defense would be an act of war. Any such action against Iran will be assessed as partnership with the aggressors. This will be considered an act of war against Iran. Do they want to deprive Iran of the opportunity and capability to respond to the aggressors? If Europe stands on the side of the aggressors, it will be a disgrace. They have already acted enough against Iran," said Bagheri at a press conference with state news agencies.
This warning was issued as European countries are striving to strengthen their defense capabilities, amid growing concerns that the conflict related to Iran could spill beyond the Middle East and pose a threat to European security.
On Monday, attack drones manufactured in Iran struck the British Royal Air Force base at Akrotiri in Cyprus. Cyprus is a member of the European Union. Officials say these drones may have been launched by Hezbollah from Lebanon.
Following the attack, the United Kingdom reinforced the base's defenses. According to British media, Prime Minister Keir Starmer is considering the possibility of sending a warship to strengthen protection against possible new attacks. At the same time, Greece and France sent military frigates to Cyprus, and Athens also provided F-16 fighter jets.
On Tuesday, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte stressed that the alliance is not directly involved in the events in the Middle East. However, he indicated that if necessary, NATO would defend "every inch" of its territory. During his visit to North Macedonia, Rutte called Iran a broad regional threat, an "existential threat" to Israel, and also a "huge risk" for Europe.
