“The enemy misinterpreted my previous statements regarding regional military operations”, said the Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian in his new statement, as reported by the local media.
The clarification of the Iranian President follows a period of diplomatic confusion where earlier comments suggested a potential suspension of military actions against Gulf nations, even as regional strikes continued. Addressing these perceptions, Pezeshkian emphasised the importance of fraternal ties, stating, "It has repeatedly been said we are brothers and must have good relations with neighbours."
However, Pezeshkian maintained his stance of defensive necessity, noting that Tehran is "forced to retaliate to attacks" but clarified that this does not imply a dispute with neighbouring countries or a desire to "upset their people."
Pezeshkian had previously appeared to strike a note of reconciliation. In a televised address on Saturday, he announced that the leadership council had decided not to attack neighbouring countries unless provoked.
"I apologise to the neighbouring countries. We have no intention of invading other countries," Pezeshkian said, adding that there would be no missile launches unless attacks against Iran originated from those specific nations.
Despite this overture to neighbours, the Iranian President struck a note of defiance against Western pressure, ruling out any possibility of surrender as the US-Israel campaign intensifies.
"They will take their dreams of us surrendering unconditionally to the grave," he asserted.
This defiant stance serves as a direct rebuttal to US President Donald Trump, who recently declared on Truth Social that there would be "no deal with Iran except unconditional surrender."
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