Here’s the scoop from Tehran: on Monday, Jan 5, Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei slammed a weekend US operation in Venezuela that allegedly seized President Nicolas Maduro and his wife. He called it "completely unlawful," saying it violates international law and tramples on Venezuela’s sovereignty. 📢
According to the US military, on Saturday, Jan 3, they carried out strikes in Venezuela and forcibly transferred Maduro to a Manhattan federal court to face narco-terrorism charges—a term the US uses for crimes involving drug trafficking and financing violence.
Baghaei urged UN member states to speak out against this "abduction" of a head of state, warning that letting it slide could set a dangerous precedent for future interventions.
The warning wasn’t just about Venezuela. Baghaei also stressed that Iran’s armed forces stand ready to defend national sovereignty, especially after US President Donald Trump said on Sunday he’s monitoring protests in Iran "very closely" and would hit Iran "very hard" if protesters are killed.
Since late last month, Iranians have been protesting in several cities over the rial’s sharp drop in value. Authorities say they’re addressing economic grievances but have warned against violence and vandalism.
Baghaei accused the US and Israel of waging "psychological warfare" through media campaigns and economic pressure to keep tensions high around Iran.
For young activists and global citizens watching this unfold, it’s a reminder that today’s headlines reflect deeper battles over sovereignty, law, and power in our interconnected world. 🌍
Reference(s):
Iran says U.S. must release Maduro, calls detention unlawful
cgtn.com
