TEHRAN, May 29, 2019 (BSS/AFP) – Iran strongly rejected an accusation by
US National Security Advisor John Bolton Wednesday that it was “almost
certainly” behind May 12 attacks on four ships off the United Arab Emirates.
“Making such laughable claims… is not strange” coming from the US,
foreign ministry spokesman Abbas Mousavi said in a statement on its official
website.
“Mr Bolton and other warmongers and chaos seekers should know that the
strategic patience, high vigilance and complete defensive readiness of the
Islamic Republic of Iran… will prevent the fulfilment of their evil desires
for chaos in the region,” Mousavi added.
Bolton made his accusation that the four ships were hit by “naval mines
almost certainly from Iran” while in the UAE capital Abu Dhabi to discuss
what he says is the threat from Tehran.
“There’s no doubt in anybody’s mind in Washington who’s responsible for
this,” Bolton said in a clear reference to Iran.
The accusation comes amid a US military buildup in the Gulf and on the eve
of emergency Arab and Gulf summits called by Iran’s regional rival Saudi
Arabia to discuss the standoff.
It also comes two days after President Donald Trump struck a dovish tone
during a visit to Japan saying that Washington was not seeking “regime
change” in Iran and was open to talks.
Bolton said US reinforcements were sent to the region as a “deterrent” and
Washington’s response would be prudent.