Iranian President Criticizes Israel for Provoking Regional Conflict During UN Address, Calls for Renewed Nuclear Talks

In his first official visit to the US, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian accused Israel of stirring up conflict in the Middle East, while emphasizing Iran’s efforts to avoid getting dragged into a wider war. Pezeshkian, a reformist leader, assumed office in July after winning on a platform of improving relations with the West.

During a press conference at the UN General Assembly, he stressed that war would not benefit anyone, and suggested Israel was trying to provoke a broader regional conflict. His comments come in the context of high tensions, especially following the assassination of a Hamas leader in Tehran, an act attributed to Israel.

Pezeshkian expressed disappointment in being advised not to retaliate for the assassination, based on promises that a peace deal involving Israel was near. However, he now believes that Iran was deceived as no such peace agreement materialized.

He reiterated that war and conflict lead to no winners and only suffering for all sides involved. His criticism extended to Israel’s continued actions in the region, accusing the country of committing atrocities and targeting civilians, including vulnerable groups like children and medical facilities.

Western diplomats continue to assess Pezeshkian’s leadership, particularly in light of ongoing regional conflicts, including Israeli attacks on Hezbollah, an Iran-backed Lebanese militant group.

He questioned why Hezbollah is blamed for instability, stating that the group only defends itself against Israeli aggression. Pezeshkian also referenced Iran’s recent military responses, including an incident where Iranian forces allegedly penetrated Israel’s Iron Dome defense system, proving their deterrent capabilities.

Pezeshkian criticized the West for its perceived hypocrisy in advocating for human rights while staying silent on Israeli actions in Gaza. He expressed willingness to reopen talks on the nuclear deal, affirming Iran’s commitment to a religious decree against possessing nuclear weapons.

He also supported the idea of resuming nuclear negotiations if other parties were willing. Pezeshkian criticized the US for its withdrawal from the nuclear deal in 2018 under Donald Trump, calling the move illegal and unjust while affirming Iran’s willingness to stick to the original terms.

The Iranian president denied accusations that Iran was backing various proxy militias hostile to Israel and rejected claims of involvement in anti-Israeli protests. He also addressed concerns about Iran’s military involvement in Ukraine, insisting that no short-range missiles had been sent to Russia under his presidency.

Pezeshkian stated that while Iran does not support Russia’s aggression in Ukraine, it also respects the territorial integrity of nations. He dismissed allegations that Iran was funding anti-Israel movements, emphasizing the country’s internal financial struggles.