Iran’s ambassador highlights the global stakes of escalating tensions

A diplomatic briefing led by His Excellency Ambassador Mansoor Shakibmehr, Iran’s envoy to South Africa, brought together religious leaders, community activists, and members of the media for a first-hand update on the rapidly unfolding situation in Iran and the broader region. The Islamic Republic of Iran has vowed to continue its military response against the United States, framing its actions as a legitimate act of self-defence under international law, as the number of civilian casualties continues to mount. This emerged during a media briefing held at the Cape Heritage Museum at the Good Hope Centre, attended by leaders of civil society formations, organisations and activists, particularly within the Palestine solidarity movement.

The briefing was hosted by the Cape Town Ulama Board and addressed by Iran’s ambassador to South Africa, Mansour Shakib Mehr. Opening his address with verses from the Qur’an, Mehr reflected on the significance of the holy month of Ramadan, describing it as a time for patience, compassion and unity among Muslims. Mehr condemned what he described as the assassination of Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, saying this was an unprecedented violation of international law.

“Targeting a head of state weakens the foundations of sovereign equality and sets a dangerous precedent,” he said, adding that Khamenei was both a respected religious scholar and a political leader committed to Iran’s people. He said the attack took place while Iran was engaged in diplomatic efforts aimed at strengthening regional peace. “Iran followed the diplomatic path and did everything necessary to prevent war,” he said.

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“The consequences of this aggression go beyond politics.” Mehr highlighted the civilian toll of the conflict, stating that more than 1400 people have been killed in Iran, including over 200 school-going children. He also pointed to attacks on civilian infrastructure. “In one instance, a girls’ elementary school was destroyed, placing more than 100 young girls at risk,” he said.

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