Iran accuses US of using Kolang Koh as a pretext for attack

Tehran: Amid the growing tension between Iran and the US, Tehran has once again levelled harsh accusations at Washington, saying that the mention of “Kolang Koh” near Natanz is being used as a justification for a possible new military operation, while according to Iran, there is no nuclear activity at this location.

Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Esmail Baqai said in his latest statement that the US is making claims that have nothing to do with reality. According to him, an attempt is being made to create an environment of further pressure, sabotage and possible military action against Iran by making Kolang Koh controversial.

The spokesperson also questioned the role of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the UN nuclear watchdog, on this occasion, saying that when the US leadership is talking about an open attack, the silence of the international nuclear watchdog is raising many questions.

Esmail Baqai said that Iran is taking a stand in accordance with international laws to protect its sovereignty and national security, however, such statements can further increase the already existing tension in the region.

This reaction came after US President Donald Trump’s statement in which he, in response to a question regarding alleged nuclear activities at Kolang Koh near Natanz, said that the US could take action at this location soon.

The US president had further said that Iran does not have the capacity to prevent this possible action and that Washington is not interested in negotiations unless Tehran is ready for meaningful negotiations.

Recent statements by both countries have once again focused global attention on the situation in the Middle East. According to analysts, tensions in the region are likely to remain high due to Iran’s nuclear program, diplomatic deadlock, and harshness in mutual statements.

There has been no official response from the US to the latest accusations from the Iranian Foreign Ministry, while the eyes of the international community are focused on whether diplomatic progress will be possible in the coming days or whether the rhetoric between the two countries will intensify further.