By Spy Uganda
The Iranian Ambassador to Uganda, Majid Saffar, has said his country is not at war with its neighbours but is acting in self-defence against what he described as aggression from the United States and Israel.
Speaking after Friday prayers at the Uganda National Mosque on April 4, Saffar addressed a large congregation, outlining Iran’s position on the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
He attributed the war to what he called longstanding conspiracies by the United States and its ally Israel, accusing them of using allegations about Iran’s nuclear programme as a pretext for military action.
“Prior to the war, we engaged in diplomatic talks despite our concerns. However, those efforts were abandoned, and bombardment raids began in June 2025,” Saffar said.
The ambassador further alleged that although calls for a ceasefire were initially made by opposing forces, hostilities resumed in February 2026. He accused the attackers of targeting civilian infrastructure, including schools, health facilities and bridges, in violation of international law.
Saffar also claimed that several senior Iranian leaders had been killed in the conflict, including Ali Khamenei, whom he described as having died while on duty.
He told the congregation that Iran would remain resolute. “The people of Iran are strong and ready to defend their country,” he said, drawing chants of “Allahu Akbar” from worshippers.
According to the ambassador, the conflict would only end on Iran’s terms, adding that lasting peace in the Middle East depends on the restoration of Palestinian statehood.
Saffar also expressed appreciation to Ugandans for what he described as solidarity and support since the outbreak of the war.
Following the prayers, the ambassador and his delegation held a meeting with the Mufti of Uganda, Shaban Mubaje, at the mosque premises. The meeting was attended by senior officials from the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council.
During the discussions, Saffar reiterated that Iran was not targeting neighbouring countries but was instead striking military installations he said were being used to launch attacks against Iran.
“We informed regional leaders in advance not to allow their territories to be used for such purposes,” he said.
He also highlighted Iran’s scientific progress and indicated that opportunities for Ugandan students to study in Iran could be expanded once the conflict subsides.
In his response, Mubaje expressed concern over the humanitarian impact of the war, particularly the loss of innocent lives. “We pray for an end to these acts and for peace to prevail,” he said.
Earlier, worshippers had listened to a sermon by Sheikh Hussein Ali Bulafu, who urged Muslims to value time as a key to success in both worldly and spiritual life.
Saffar later appeared on a live programme on Radio Bilal FM, where he provided further updates on the situation in the Middle East.
