In a telephone conversation on Thursday with his Finnish counterpart Alexander Stubb, the Iranian president discussed the latest regional developments and underscored the need for intensified diplomatic efforts to contain the situation.
During the call, Pezeshkian outlined the scope of US and Israeli military aggression against Iran, noting that the country had come under attack for the second time in less than a year while engaged in a diplomatic process. He said the assaults had caused considerable human and material damage.
He argued that the repercussions of an unlawful war are not limited to Iran or the region, but extend to the wider international community, stressing that such actions undermine international law and require a decisive response from all governments.
Pezeshkian also criticized the reaction of the European Union, saying that while some member states had taken responsible positions, others had responded passively or with bias, particularly regarding strikes on civilians and infrastructure.
Reaffirming Iran’s right to self-defense, Pezeshkian said Tehran does not seek to widen the conflict but will firmly safeguard its national security, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. He added that Iran’s regional actions are in response to the use of neighboring countries’ territories by its adversaries, emphasizing that the Islamic Republic harbors no hostility toward its neighbors.
He also rejected any foreign involvement in the Strait of Hormuz, stating that current insecurity in the passage stems from US and Israeli military actions. Vessels linked to parties involved in hostilities, he said, should not expect to use the route to support operations against Iran, describing the stance as consistent with international law.
For his part, Stubb voiced concern over the situation and stressed the importance of diplomacy to de-escalate tensions, adding that Finland stands ready to support efforts aimed at restoring peace and stability.
The US and the Israeli regime launched a large-scale unprovoked military campaign against Iran following the assassination of Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyed Ali Khamenei, along with several senior military commanders and civilians on February 28.
The attacks have involved extensive aerial strikes on both military and civilian locations across Iran, causing significant casualties and widespread damage to infrastructure.
In response, the Iranian Armed Forces have carried out retaliatory operations, targeting American and Israeli positions in the occupied territories and at regional bases with waves of missiles and drones.