Summary
Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian has condemned the assassination of Hamas’ political leader Ismail Haniyeh, characterizing it as part of Israel’s strategy to instigate a wider conflict in the Middle East. He indicated that Iran does not desire an escalation of the current tensions but warned that Israel’s actions may compel a response from Iran at a strategically chosen time.
In his remarks, Pezeshkian highlighted that the ongoing violence in Gaza and the border airstrikes are exacerbating regional instability. He specifically mentioned the assassination of Haniyeh, which took place just before his inauguration, as a provocative act that could lead Iran into a broader conflict. While he affirmed Iran’s commitment to defending itself, he also emphasized that warfare yields no winners and that Iran’s military capabilities were demonstrated in previous drone and missile attacks against Israel. Pezeshkian’s statements reflect a careful balancing act, as Iran seeks to assert its defensive posture while avoiding direct escalation.
Iran's President Accuses Israel of Seeking Wider Mideast War and Laying 'Traps' to Lead Iran Into It
Sep. 23 / Usnews “ UNITED NATIONS (AP) — Iran’s president accused Israel on Monday of seeking a wider war in the Middle East and laying “traps” to lead his country into a wider...
Iran's president accuses Israel of seeking wider Mideast war and laying 'traps' to lead Iran into it
Sep. 23 / Newsday “ UNITED NATIONS — Iran’s president accused Israel on Monday of seeking a wider war in the Middle East and laying “traps” to lead his country into a wider...