Iran does not take Israel's war threats seriously, but will also give a “strong and immediate” response to any possible threat, Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister for Arab and African Affairs Hossein Amir-Abdollahian said at a press conference in Kuwait City on Thursday.

He added that the Israeli regime is suffering from the worst conditions following the recent developments in the region, IRNA reported.

The United States and Israel have repeatedly threatened Tehran with the "option" of a military strike, based on their allegation that Iran's nuclear program may include a covert military aspect.

Iran insists that as a signatory to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty and a member of the International Atomic Energy Agency, it has the right to develop and acquire nuclear technology for peaceful purposes

The Iranian official further noted that Iran's relations with the Persian Gulf littoral states are based on establishing collective security in the region.

He emphasized that the Islamic Republic's strategy is based on promoting regional stability, progress and development.

Amir-Abdollahian criticized the presence of foreign forces in the Persian Gulf region and said the withdrawal of the US troops from Iraq would play a key part in restoring security and stability in Iraq.

Iran believes that sustainable security in the region should be established by regional countries. Tehran regards the US withdrawal from Iraq as an “appropriate” step, the diplomat pointed out.

He expressed hope that Washington would stop interfering in Iraq's internal affairs.

The deputy foreign minister, currently on a tour of the Persian Gulf states, arrived in Kuwait on Thursday.

Amir-Abdollahian paid visits to Oman, the United Arab Emirates and Qatar, and held talks with senior officials of the countries on bilateral relations and regional developments.

PressTV