Iran not at war with Saudi Arabia: Pezeshkian

Iran not at war with Saudi Arabia: Pezeshkian

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has said that Iran is not at war with Saudi Arabia, stressing that the Houthi movement has its own issues and that Tehran does not seek confrontation with Riyadh.

Speaking about the escalating tensions in the region, Pezeshkian called on all regional countries to sit together and work toward restoring peace and security. He said dialogue and regional cooperation remained essential to preventing further conflict and instability.

The Iranian president also discussed a meeting expected to take place in Muscat over the Strait of Hormuz, saying that countries whose territories have been used to launch attacks against Iran would take part in the discussions.

Pezeshkian reiterated that Iran seeks recognition of its international rights rather than war. He said Tehran continues to give priority to peace and is prepared to engage in dialogue to resolve regional disputes.

“We want our international rights, not war,” Pezeshkian said, emphasizing Iran’s stated preference for diplomatic solutions amid growing tensions across the Middle East.

He also accused the United States, Israel and European countries of seeking to prevent regional states from maintaining their independence. According to Pezeshkian, external powers want to limit the ability of countries in the region to make independent political and strategic decisions.

His remarks come amid heightened regional tensions and growing international concerns over attacks on energy infrastructure, maritime security and the possibility of a wider conflict.

Pezeshkian’s comments underline Tehran’s position that regional disputes should be addressed through dialogue rather than military confrontation. He also appeared to distinguish Iran’s relations with Saudi Arabia from the actions of the Houthis, indicating that Tehran does not consider itself to be engaged in a direct war with the kingdom.

Iran has repeatedly called for greater regional cooperation, particularly among Gulf and neighbouring states, to address security concerns and prevent outside powers from further escalating tensions in the region.