欧美文化:Iranian FM warns of "heavy, bitter" consequences for Israel's miscalculation

TEHRAN, Oct. 22 (Xinhua) -- Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian on Sunday warned that the region had turned into a "powder keg" and any miscalculation by Israel and its supporters could lead to "heavy and bitter" consequences for them.

He made the remarks at a joint press conference with visiting South African Foreign Minister Naledi Pandor following their meeting in the Iranian capital Tehran earlier in the day, during which they discussed bilateral ties and regional issues, according to the Iranian Students' News Agency.

Amir-Abdollahian criticized U.S. President Joe Biden's recent visit to Israel and his announcement to supply a large number of weapons to Israel.

Turning to bilateral relations, the Iranian top diplomat highlighted the necessity to implement all previously signed agreements with South Africa. He added that Iranian and South African officials at different levels would pay visits to each other's country to further cooperation.

Pandor called for greater attention to the Israeli-Palestinian issue, and urged more activities and measures to stop the "injustice" against the Palestinian people, according to Iran's semi-official Tasnim news agency.

Commenting on bilateral ties with Iran, she listed the favorable areas for cooperation as those of agriculture, energy and digital technology.

The Palestinian Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas) launched a surprise attack on Israel on Oct. 7, firing thousands of rockets and infiltrating Israeli territory, to which Israel responded with massive airstrikes and punitive measures, including a siege on the enclave with supplies of water, electricity, fuel, and other necessities being cut off.

The ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict has entered its 16th day, killing more than 6,000 people on both sides and leaving many others in an acute humanitarian crisis.