Iran's ambassador to the Vatican criticizes Rubio's remarks on civilization

Mohammad Hossein Mokhtari, Iran's ambassador to the Vatican, has denounced recent remarks by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio at the Acropolis in Greece, describing them as an "unethical and provocative act." According to Mokhtari, Rubio used the occasion at the UNESCO World Heritage Site to justify hawkish positions and threats against Iran out of desperation.

The ambassador said that the history of human civilization is not a field for political fantasies or judgments born of ignorance and prejudice. He emphasized that civilizations were built over thousands of years through human thought, culture, knowledge, and effort, and their legacy cannot be dismissed through superficial claims or distorted accounts.

Mokhtari highlighted Iran's historical and spiritual standing, citing references to the country in religious texts. He noted that in the Old Testament, Cyrus the Great is presented as the Lord's anointed and chosen instrument for fulfilling divine will. The books of Ezra, Daniel, and Esther also refer to Persian kings, the grandeur of the Persian Empire, and their role in the fate of nations, he added.

The remarks come amid ongoing tensions between Iran and the United States. Rubio's comments at the Acropolis, a symbol of ancient Greek civilization, were seen by the Iranian envoy as an attempt to undermine Iran's rich historical heritage. Mokhtari's response underscores Iran's insistence on respecting the history and contributions of ancient civilizations.

According to Mehr News, the Iranian ambassador's statement reflects Iran's firm stance against what it perceives as disrespectful and politically motivated remarks by US officials.