Iran’s Foreign Ministry Spokesman Nasser Kanaani has said the country sees no need for sending auxiliary or voluntary forces to Gaza or Lebanon as regional countries and peoples could defend themselves against Israel.

He made the remarks at a weekly press conference in the Iranian capital Tehran while answering questions about whether Iran had “serious and practical” plans to send voluntary forces to Gaza and Lebanon.

“We maintain that the region’s countries, governments, and peoples, including Lebanon and Palestine, possess the necessary capabilities and power to defend themselves. They can defend themselves against Israel’s aggression and there is no need for Iran to send auxiliary or voluntary forces,” Mr Kanaani said.

The Iranian foreign minister noted that Iran had not received any request from any party to send forces.

Mr Kanaani said Iran’s patience was out of wisdom and to maintain peace and security in the region and the world.

He stressed that if the country considered it necessary, it definitely would not hesitate to support its national security and regional supporters.

Israel began extensive deadly airstrikes across Lebanon a week ago, marking its largest military operation in Lebanon since 2006. 

(Xinhua/NAN)