JERUSALEM — The Iranian Navy commander announced in a televised broadcast last fall that the regime claims ownership of Antarctica and has intentions to establish a military presence in the South Pole.
According to the Washington D.C.-based Middle East Media Research Institute (MEMRI), Rear Admiral Shahram Irani stated that Iran has property rights in the South Pole and plans to raise its flag there to conduct both military and scientific operations.
As Iran’s naval activity gains attention in response to the recent murder of three U.S. soldiers by Iranian-backed militias in Jordan, questions arise about the potential use of $6 billion in Iranian funds, recently unfrozen by the United States, for setting up a base in Antarctica. However, a U.S. State Department spokesperson has clarified that these funds may only be used to purchase humanitarian goods, such as food and medicine.
Despite growing aggression from the Iranian regime, including claims of ownership of Antarctica, the Biden administration has released $6 billion in sanctions relief to Iran’s rulers, despite concerns from Iran observers and the international community.
The Iranian President, Ebrahim Raisi, has dismissed the Biden administration’s restrictions on the use of the $6 billion, stating that the regime will utilize the funds as needed.
Experts warn that Iran’s strategy to expand military operations into Antarctica not only violates multilateral conventions but also contributes to the regime’s trend of global aggression, posing a threat to world stability.
In addition to the recent claims about Antarctica, Iran has displayed aggressive behavior in other areas, deploying military ships to Brazil and reportedly developing “smart” cruise missiles for its navy arsenal. Experts emphasize that Iran’s actions in Antarctica, although seemingly distant, add to concerns about the regime’s nuclear threat and global destabilization.
While Iran may attempt to assert its interests in Antarctica, it is important to note that the Antarctic Treaty, effective since 1961, prohibits any actions by nations after that year from forming the basis of territorial claims on the continent. As a non-signatory to the treaty, any attempts by Iran in Antarctica are unlikely to be recognized by other nations, many of which are signatories to the treaty.
As questions and concerns about Iran’s intentions towards Antarctica continue, it is evident that the regime’s behavior reflects a pattern of ambitious yet futile plans, reminiscent of the USSR’s final days before collapse. Despite Iran’s grandiose aspirations, the state’s inability to provide basic services to its people and its bankruptcy raise doubts about the feasibility of its ambitious claims.
Questions regarding Iran’s plans in Antarctica remain unanswered as Fox News Digital continues to seek input from Iran’s Foreign Ministry and its U.N. mission in New York.