TEHRAN: Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Wednesday called on the United States and other Western countries to cease their support for Israel, amid escalating tensions following the assassination of Hamas leader in Tehran.
In a phone conversation with French President Emmanuel Macron, Pezeshkian condemned Western arms sales and support for Israel, describing it as backing a regime that disregards international laws. “If the United States and Western countries want to prevent war and insecurity in the region, they should immediately stop selling arms and supporting the Zionist regime,” Pezeshkian stated.
The Iranian President’s comments come in the wake of heightened fears of military escalation between Iran and Israel. Last week, Ismail Haniyeh, the political leader of Hamas, was killed in Tehran during a visit for Pezeshkian’s inauguration.
The Revolutionary Guards reported that Haniyeh was struck by a “short-range projectile” fired from outside his accommodation. Both Iran and Hamas have accused Israel of orchestrating the attack and have vowed strong retaliation, though Tehran claims it does not seek further escalation.
Pezeshkian emphasized Iran’s commitment to avoiding war and promoting global peace, yet underscored the nation’s resolve to defend its interests and security. “The Islamic Republic of Iran considers avoiding war and trying to establish world peace and security as one of its basic principles,” he said. However, he warned that Iran would not remain silent against violations of its interests.
The assassination of Haniyeh, a key figure in ceasefire negotiations, has exacerbated concerns about the future of peace efforts and regional stability. In his conversation with Macron, Pezeshkian urged Western nations to pressure Israel to cease its attacks on Gaza and accept a ceasefire. Iran has called for an end to the ongoing Israeli violence.
Meanwhile, Lebanese are fleeing the southern suburbs of Beirut. Beirut’s southern suburbs, known as Dahiyeh, have experienced an exodus of residents fearing further conflict. The area has seen skyrocketing rent prices as people seek refuge from the violence.
