Iran has formalilateral rly protested Bulgaria's decision to allow the United States to use its territory in support of military operations against Iran, with Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi describing the move as a violation of international law and a threat to belations.

During a phone call with Bulgarian Foreign Minister Velislava Petrova on Thursday, Araghchi discussed the latest regional developments and sharply criticized Sofia's decision to approve Washington's request to deploy US military aircraft at Bulgaria's Bezmer Air Base.

According to the Iranian Foreign Ministry, Araghchi accused the United States of continuing its military aggression against Iran and pursuing policies that have further escalated tensions across West Asia.

The Iranian foreign minister described Bulgaria's decision to facilitate US military operations as "condemnable, unacceptable, and inconsistent with the long-standing friendly relations between the two countries." He urged the Bulgarian government to reconsider its decision without delay.

Araghchi also cited Article 3 of United Nations General Assembly Resolution 3314 on the Definition of Aggression, arguing that permitting one state's territory to be used by another state to launch an act of aggression against a third country constitutes an act of aggression under international law.

He emphasized that Iran would continue to defend its national sovereignty and security against any hostile actions, warning that any country assisting military operations against Iran, regardless of the level of involvement, would bear responsibility for the consequences.

For her part, Bulgarian Foreign Minister Velislava Petrova reaffirmed the longstanding friendly relations between Bulgaria and Iran and stressed that Sofia has no intention of becoming a party to the conflict.

Petrova also reiterated Bulgaria's support for diplomatic efforts aimed at easing regional tensions, expressing hope that dialogue would prevail in resolving the ongoing crisis. (ILKHA)