Iranian President Massoud Pezeshkian on Tuesday called for a new political architecture in the Middle East during his address to the United Nations General Assembly, dpa reports.
“The presence of foreign powers in our region is temporary and only leads to instability,” Pezeshkian stated, urging for greater cooperation among Middle Eastern nations. He emphasized that Tehran seeks to ensure its own security without creating insecurity for others. “We want peace for all and seek no war or conflict with anyone.”
Amid rising tensions in the region, the Iranian president strongly condemned Israel’s recent actions, labeling them “Israeli terrorism” following attacks in Lebanon. “This large-scale aggression, which has resulted in thousands of casualties, will not go unanswered,” Pezeshkian warned, placing responsibility on governments that have obstructed global efforts to end the crisis.
Call for Ceasefire and Warning of Escalation
Pezeshkian also urged for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza to end what he described as “Israel’s desperate barbarism” before it spreads further across the region.
Despite Iran’s support for Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon, Pezeshkian’s administration has maintained a relatively restrained stance since he took office in July, dpa notes.
Readiness for Nuclear Negotiations and Improving International Relations
Pezeshkian signaled Iran’s readiness to resume negotiations on the nuclear deal, noting his desire to improve ties with the West—a stance he emphasized during his electoral campaign. His team includes experienced diplomats who are focused on pursuing new diplomatic efforts.
While Iranian media views Pezeshkian’s speech as a potential “new beginning,” international observers remain skeptical about significant progress on sanctions relief, particularly ahead of the U.S. presidential elections.
Iran has been grappling with a severe economic crisis since the U.S. withdrew from the nuclear deal in 2018 and imposed new sanctions. Negotiations on reviving the agreement have been stalled for years, leaving Iran increasingly isolated due to its policies in the Middle East and its support for Russia’s war against Ukraine, dpa notes.
