US double standards may lead to new world war: Iran

Iran's defense minister has censured the United States for adopting a double-standard policy in defending its interests, saying such a policy may finally lead to a new world war.

Brigadier General Hossein Dehqan made the remarks at the 5th Moscow Conference on International Security (MCIS) in the Russian capital on Wednesday.

For the sake of safeguarding its own interests, Washington is employing “double, multiple standards on the main issues associated with the disruption of safety and stability,” Dehqan said, adding, “They use proxy wars, and they impose a heavy cost on the stage to wage the wars. We see a repeat of the situation and there could be a potential new world war taking place.”

The Iranian minister also warned that only a "realistic" and "responsible" approach to the conflicts gripping the Middle East could prevent a potential new world war.

He further condemned the US, Saudi Arabia, and Israel for propping up terrorist groups “under the disguise of humanitarian aid, under [the excuse of] establishing a cessation of hostilities”.

“There are countries that created those terrorist groups, sponsor those terrorist groups, and they do not want to lead an effective war until the very end,” he stated.

The MCIS kicked off on Wednesday with a focus on international convergence on fighting terrorism, and security issues concerning the Asia-Pacific region, as well as international stability and military cooperation.

Iran to boost defense capabilities

Elsewhere in his remarks, the Iranian defense minister noted that the Islamic Republic will enhance its defense capabilities, particularly the missile program, warning that no one can impede the country’s peaceful efforts in that regard.

"Iran… will be taking steps at the highest levels for the military equipment of its armed forces," he said, adding, "And no will or organization will be able to stand on the way and obstruct the development and upsurge of the defense capability, especially missile defense capability of Iran."

Iran has never made and will not make threats to security of other countries, Dehqan further reiterated, saying that Tehran condemns any aggression and use of force against sovereign states.

In recent years, Iran has made great achievements in its defense sector and reached self-sufficiency in producing essential military equipment and systems.

The Islamic Republic has repeatedly assured other nations, especially its neighbors and regional countries, that its military might poses no threat to other states, stressing that its defense doctrine is merely based on deterrence.

Iran and Russia have cooperated in the area of defense toward countering the threat of terrorism in the Middle East.

The two countries have successfully provided assistance to the Syrian government in its efforts to push back militant groups in the Arab country.

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