Article by Viory
Iran’s foreign ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei claimed the US rescue operation may have been used as cover for an attempt to seize enriched uranium, speaking from Tehran on Monday.
“The distance between the area where it was claimed the American pilot was located in Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad, and the area where they attempted or intended to deploy forces is significant in central Iran,” Baqaei said.
“Therefore, the possibility that this was a deception operation to steal the enriched uranium should not be dismissed, but as I said, what is clear is that the result of this operation was nothing more than Second Tabas,” he added.
The reference to ‘Second Tabas’ alludes to the failed 1980 US mission to rescue hostages in Tehran.
President Donald Trump said on Sunday that two US airmen had been rescued after their F-15 was shot down over Iranian territory, calling it ‘one of the most daring search-and-rescue operations in US history.”
Neither Washington nor Tel Aviv has indicated that any operation involved attempts to access nuclear material.
Baqaei also confirmed that Iran is in discussions with Oman over safeguarding maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz.
“We have made a very responsible decision, even though we are in a wartime situation,” Baqaei said. “We have decided to begin talks with Oman <…> to examine a protocol, a procedure for the safe passage of vessels through the Strait of Hormuz.”
Omani authorities said Muscat hosted talks between officials from both countries to explore ways to maintain safe passage through the waterway amid escalating tensions.
The remarks come as regional tensions continue to rise following joint military operations launched by the United States and Israel against Iran on February 28.
Tehran responded with strikes targeting Israeli and US assets across the region, while the conflict expanded to include Hezbollah in Lebanon.
Iran later confirmed the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, with his son Mojtaba Khamenei named as his successor.
Disruptions to shipping through the Strait of Hormuz have pushed oil prices above $100 per barrel, adding further strain to global energy markets.
Article by Viory
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