Khamenei: Iran will hit back if struck by Israel, U.S.March 20, 2012 - 19:36 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Iran's supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, warned on Tuesday, March 20 his country would hit back at any attack by the United States or Israel, firming tensions in the showdown over Tehran's nuclear programme, AFP reported. "We have said that we do not have atomic weapons and we will not build any. But if there is any attack by the enemies, whether it be United States or the Zionist regime, we will attack them at the same level as they attack us," he said in live televised speech to mark the start of the Iranian new year. The comments reinforced Iran's position as it faces off against the West over its nuclear activities, and as it confronts Israeli and US threats of possible military action. Khamenei, who was speaking in the western city of Mashhad, said Iran had a divine right to retaliate if struck. "The Koran states that if an enemy attacks you first, the enemy will certainly be defeated," he said. "This is God's law. We are not thinking of attacks and aggression, but we are attached to the existence and identity of the Islamic republic." Top stories Authorities said a total of 192 Azerbaijani troops were killed and 511 were wounded during Azerbaijan’s offensive. In 2023, the Azerbaijani government will increase the country’s defense budget by more than 1.1 billion manats ($650 million). The bill, published on Monday, is designed to "eliminate the shortcomings of an unreasonably broad interpretation of the key concept of "compatriot". The earthquake caused a temporary blackout, damaged many buildings and closed a number of rural roads. Partner news | Macron says France commemorates 109th anniv. of Armenian genocide Today France commemorates the 109th anniversary of the Armenian genocide of 1915, Macron says. Freedom House concerned by mounting reports of police violence in Armenia Freedom House urged Armenian authorities to investigate this pattern of excessive force and inhumane treatment. CSTO recognizes Armenia’s sovereign right to withdraw Tasmagambetov has said that if Armenia decides to leave the organization, “it will be the sovereign right of Armenia.” Ex-President: Only removal of “defeatist” rulers can save Armenia Former Armenian President Serzh Sargsyan has shared a message on the 109th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide. |