Iranian President Pezeshkian Calls for Peace, Blames US Sanctions and 'Terrorism' for Regional Tensions

In an exclusive Al Jazeera interview conducted by Ali al-Dafiri, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian spoke from the United Nations in New York. Pezeshkian characterized Iran as a victim of what he termed 'terrorism,' citing the assassinations of Iranian officials, scientists, and schoolchildren in attacks attributed to the United States and Israel. He highlighted the significant negative impact of intensified US sanctions on the Iranian economy and addressed rising tensions surrounding the Strait of Hormuz. The president also expressed that a series of broken agreements have eroded Tehran's trust in Washington.

President Pezeshkian defended Iran's retaliatory strikes on US bases in the Gulf and the broader Arab region, asserting that regional security should be managed by local actors, not foreign powers. He also shared his reflections on the ongoing conflicts in Gaza and Yemen, the formation of the new Syrian government, and Iran's diplomatic relationships with Russia and China. Pezeshkian concluded by advocating for Muslim solidarity, with Saudi Arabia at its core, to counter perceived US-Israeli efforts to destabilize the region.