Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi explicitly accused Israel of carrying out the drone strike on a vessel in Egypt, and warned that all parties must be vigilant against Israeli 'false flag' operations aimed at destabilizing the region, according to Israeli media.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on Wednesday evening explicitly accused Israel of carrying out the drone strike on a vessel in Egypt, warning of 'Israeli schemes and false flag operations' aimed at destabilizing the region, according to Israeli media. The direct accusation, reported by N12, sharpens Tehran's rhetoric after Araghchi hinted at Israeli involvement earlier that same evening.
The thread of reports on the Damietta port incident unfolded rapidly Wednesday evening. Initial maritime security reports indicated a drone strike on a Greek-owned LNG tanker, causing a fire on deck. Egyptian security sources initially denied an external attack, attributing a blast to an engine-room fire. The Zioneer then reported that Egypt officially confirmed the drone strike, reversing earlier denials. Egyptian authorities later reportedly blamed Iran, and the Wall Street Journal cited Egyptian officials stating Iran was responsible. The Al-Banna Brigades also claimed responsibility. Araghchi first suggested Israel was behind the attack, then issued the explicit accusation.
As The Zioneer reported on July 3, U.S. officials harbored concerns that Israel might attempt to target high-ranking Iranian figures, including Foreign Minister Araghchi, during a sensitive diplomatic window. The accusation comes amid heightened regional tensions, with Iran having previously threatened missile retaliation and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.
Despite the explicit accusation, the identity of the perpetrator of the drone strike remains unconfirmed. Egyptian officials, per WSJ, have attributed the attack to Iran, while Iran denies involvement and accuses Israel. No independent confirmation of responsibility has emerged.
28 developments
- StrongIranian FM Araghchi posts on X after US strikes, as diplomatic flurry continues
- DevelopingIran FM Araghchi writes on X: every step is part of a greater struggle for honor
- DevelopingIranian Foreign Minister Araghchi discusses Iran's response with Qatari and French counterparts
- StrongIran's Araghchi vows armed forces will retaliate against any attack
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