简体中文
LONDON, Sept. 23 (APD) - Britain Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Sunday that Iran was responsible for attacks on Saudi Arabia oil facilities, considering to take part in the United States-led military effort to boost security in Saudi defense.
“We will work with our American and European friends to construct a response that tries to de-escalate tensions in the Gulf region,” Johnson said.
Saudi Arabia and the United States have previously said that Iran was responsible over the drone and missiles attacks in two of Saudi Arabian oil refineries. Teheran has adamantly denied the accusation.
Responding to the developing situation, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said that Iran would call all littoral states in Persian Gulf to join Iran-led coalition to safeguard the region’s security.
Rouhani said that besides the security, Iran-led coalition would also address economic cooperation and long-term peace in the region.
Johnson planned to meet Rouhani in the upcoming United Nations (UN) high level gathering slated for this weekend. He also planned to have meetings with U.S. President Donald Trump, Germany Chancellor Angela Markel and France President Emmanuel Macron.
Johnson said that Britain wants to become then bridge between Europe and the United States over crisis in the Gulf.
Johnson pointed out the need for a diplomatic response to the Gulf tensions, but asserted that Britain would consider any request for military help.
Trump’s government has announced Friday that it would send additional U.S. troops and missile defense equipment to Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates as part of a defensive deployment.
Trump’s administration has pulled out the United States from international deal aimed at limiting Iran’s nuclear might. European countries, including Britain, have pledged to stay in the deal.
(ASIA PACIFIC DAILY)
