At the United Nations General Assembly in New York, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian asserted that Iran’s actions were in self-defense following attacks by the United States and Israel, firmly denying accusations labeling Tehran as a terrorist state.
He emphasized that despite being targeted, Iran did not submit but instead responded defensively. Pezeshkian challenged the notion of Iran as a terrorist entity by questioning why the country would participate in the UN General Assembly if that were true.
Highlighting violations of international law by the US and Israel, Pezeshkian stated that Iran had only retaliated to attacks and refrained from targeting civilian areas. He pointed out that Iranian civilians, including children and scientists, had been victims, and accused the US and Israel of assaulting universities and hospitals.
In a significant development, Pezeshkian referenced the assassination attempt on Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran, which coincided with his presidential inauguration, underscoring Israel’s targeting of key figures. He reiterated that Iran’s responses avoided civilian targets.
During his address, the president displayed images of Iran’s former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei alongside children, symbolizing national resilience. He noted that the Iranian populace had been protesting against aggression for seven months, serving as the nation’s core strength.
Pezzeshkian declared Iran’s sovereignty in defending itself without seeking external approval and vowed not to succumb to oppression. This statement came amid ongoing tensions between the US and Iran and heightened diplomatic activity during the UN General Assembly. Notably, US President Donald Trump had warned Iran of potential annihilation if peace was not achieved.
The Iranian leader criticized Israel’s nuclear ambiguity, pointing out that Israel is not a signatory to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) yet possesses nuclear weapons and has caused significant casualties, while Iran faces sanctions.
He reaffirmed Iran’s commitment to peaceful nuclear energy, asserting the country’s right to develop nuclear technology for civilian purposes and rejecting any notion of pursuing nuclear weapons.
Addressing regional security, Pezeshkian condemned the unrestricted naval movements through the Strait of Hormuz by certain countries, accusing the US of obstructing Iranian waterways and attacking its vessels. He urged regional nations to resolve their issues independently without becoming pawns of external powers.
Turning to the crisis in Gaza, Pezeshkian questioned the innocence of Palestinian victims and condemned the killing and wounding of thousands of Palestinian children. He reiterated Iran’s right to self-defense in the face of US and Israeli aggression.
Regarding nuclear negotiations, Pezeshkian stated that Iran had engaged in multiple rounds of talks but accused Israel of undermining these efforts. He affirmed Iran’s adherence to agreements and denied any pursuit of nuclear arms.
He expressed readiness to defend Iran in any conflict and criticized the double standards that allow Israel to conduct military operations while Iran faces sanctions. Pezeshkian called for cooperation to achieve security and foster strong neighboring relations, emphasizing Iran’s belief in diplomacy over military pressure.
Concluding his speech, Pezeshkian lamented the sanctions imposed on Iran, describing them as regrettable, and reiterated the country’s determination to protect its sovereignty and development goals.
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