‘Which side are you on?’: Iran’s Ali Larijani slams Muslim nations over US-Israel ties

Tehran: Iranian security chief Ali Larijani issued an urgent appeal for Islamic solidarity on Monday, questioning the allegiances of Muslim-majority nations as Iran continues its military confrontation with the United States and Israel.

Larijani asserted that Iran remains "steadfast" in its opposition to Western and Israeli influence but expressed frustration over a perceived lack of regional support during recent military engagements. He criticised several neighbouring countries for their stance during the ongoing conflict, noting that some have distanced themselves from Tehran’s actions.

Challenges to Regional Sovereignty

“Some nations have gone even further, declaring Iran to be their adversary simply because it targeted American bases – as well as American and Israeli interests – situated within their own territories,” Larijani said.

The official argued that Iran cannot be “expected to stand idly by with its hands tied” while U.S. military installations remain active in bordering nations. While Tehran maintains that its operations exclusively target American and Israeli strategic assets, regional reports indicate that Iranian drones and missiles have struck civilian infrastructure, including energy facilities and hotels throughout the Gulf region.

A Call for Alignment

Larijani framed the current geopolitical landscape as a binary struggle, urging Muslim nations to reconsider their security partnerships. He insisted that Iran does not seek “hegemony” over the Middle East but rather a unified front against common threats.

“The confrontation today is, in reality, between America and Israel on one side, and Muslim Iran and the forces of resistance on the other. Which side are you on, then?” Larijani asked. He concluded his message by warning regional leaders about the reliability of their Western alliances, stating, “You know full well that America has no loyalty, and that Israel is, in fact, your enemy.”