"If Iran talks about its right to punish the aggressor, this is an action to help consolidate security and stability in the region," says Iranian foreign ministry spokesman Nasser Kanani at a news conference in Tehran. Kanani's comments come as the killing of Hamas's political leader in an attack blamed on Israel has prompted fears of a wider regional conflict and sidelined talks aimed at ending the nearly 10-month war in Gaza. IMAGES AND SOUNDBITES - TO COMPLETE VIDEO No. 36AB8Y9