TEHRAN (Iran News) –In a statement on Saturday, Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Nasser Kanaani strongly condemned the sanctions the US, the UK and Canada have imposed on a number of natural and legal persons of the Iranian armed forces.

The spokesman also denounced the European Parliament’s resolution against Iran, taking a swipe at a few European countries for following the US government’s cruel policies.

He underlined that Iran’s military capacities are developed according to its needs in order to protect national security and interests, safeguard territorial integrity and sovereignty, and create legitimate and deterrent defense against foreign threats and acts of aggression.

“The Islamic Republic of Iran is a major partner of the international community in providing regional and international peace and security and in fighting against international terrorism,” Kanaani said.

He stated that the sanctions against Iran’s defense sector could by no means erode the country’s determination to boost its power for defending its sovereignty, territorial integrity and national interests, but, contrary to the will of those imposing sanctions, will turn into an opportunity for the promotion of self-sufficiency as well as military and defense capabilities.

“Many nations and governments, specifically in the West Asia region, hold out no hope of the role of the US and its European allies in the establishment of stability and security in the region anymore,” the spokesman added.

His comments came after the UK, US and Canada on Thursday announced fresh sanctions on Iran following its retaliatory operation against Israeli military targets on April 14.

The three governments said they were targeting Iran’s drone and missile industries by hitting individuals and companies “closely involved” in Iran’s drone production.

In the meantime, the European Parliament on Thursday adopted a resolution condemning Iran’s drone and missile operation against the Israeli regime, in a vote of 357-20, and calling for further sanctions to be imposed on Iranian entities.