Iranian President Talks with Putin on US-Israel Attack

President Masoud Pezeshkian of the Islamic Republic of Iran reiterated Iran’s commitment to defending its sovereignty while seeking lasting peace, amid the United States-Israel attack on the country. He said this in a telephone conversation with President Vladimir Putin of Russia, in which Pezeshkian condemned the aggressive actions of the United States and Israel. It is noted that the United States and Israel began a military strike against Iran on 28 February, which killed Supreme Leader Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei. Iran then retaliated by launching missile and drone attacks against Israeli territory as well as US military bases in regional states. Pezeshkian denounced the ‘unlawful killing’ of Ayatollah Khamenei, calling it a violation of international law. He also condemned ‘blind and reckless power’ for attempting to impose its will on nations. ‘The oppressors, using blind and reckless power, seek to impose their will on nations, but the strong and heroic support of the Iranian people for its system and state shows that these attacks only strengthen the nation’s resolve to defend its homeland,’ the Iranian President asserted. He also conveyed to Putin that Israel’s denial of its intention to attack Iran is untrue. Pezeshkian stressed that ‘today it is clear to everyone that deceit and hatred are their nature, and during negotiations they have attacked us again.’ The Iranian President urged Putin to use Russia’s international influence to back Iran’s legitimate rights against this aggression. Pezeshkian also explained that every targeting of US military bases is purely defensive in nature, and aimed at protecting Iran and its people. He emphasised that regional security must be guaranteed by the states in the region, not by foreign powers. ‘The Islamic Republic of Iran has never intended, and will never intend, to attack neighbouring countries; our path is a strong defence of territorial integrity and enduring peace,’ he said. Putin, for his part, offered condolences on the death of Ayatollah Khamenei and expressed deep solidarity with Iran. Putin also stressed the importance of regional stability, noting ongoing contacts with leaders of the Gulf Cooperation Council. The two sides agreed to maintain and strengthen diplomatic and security coordination between Tehran and Moscow through various channels.