Europe must answer for reneging promises not back riots: Iran

The Foreign Ministry says instead of defending those committing acts of anarchy and rioting across Iran, Europe has to answer for going back on the promises it has made to the Iranian people.

According to Press TV, Foreign Ministry Spokesman Abbas Mousavi made the remarks on Thursday after a meddlesome statement by a European Union spokesperson, which the Iranian official described as an instance of interference in Iran’s internal affairs.

“What should be noted concerning Iran in the first place is Europe’s accountability for its lack of commitment and refusal to uphold its nuclear obligations [towards the country], as well as its joining the United States in acts of bullying through the sanctions and economic terrorism, which Washington has employed against the Iranian people,” he said.

However, instead of minding its obligations vis-à-vis Tehran, Europe resorts to intrusive remarks and “crying crocodile tears in defense of hooligans and those destroying public and private property and facilities in Iran.”

The government raised gasoline prices last week in order to moderate the national consumption rate, which stands at 110 million liters per day, 40 million liters per day above the maximum domestic requirement.

The move prompted some peaceful protests, but riotous elements, abusing the situation, quickly entered the scene, destroying public property, setting ablaze banks and gas stations among other facilities, and opening fire on people and security forces.

On Thursday, Iranians staged fresh rallies against acts of violence and vandalism committed during recent protests against the rise in gasoline prices in the country, condemning the U.S. and Israel for fueling the unrest. Demonstrators from all walks of life also chanted slogans in support of the Islamic establishment.

Mousavi also advised European countries to rather address their own predicaments and remedy extensive dissatisfaction among their own people, which are reflected in various forms across the continent every week, and have been followed by widespread fatalities and sweeping arrests.

SS