TEHRAN, Iran — Masoud Pezeshkian has publicly apologised to neighbouring Gulf countries targeted by recent Iranian missile and drone strikes, pledging that such incidents will cease unless attacks against Iran originate from their territories.
In a pre-recorded address broadcast on Iranian state television on Saturday, the Iranian leader expressed regret over the attacks, which have affected several countries in the Gulf region amid escalating tensions in the Middle East.
Okay News reports that the strikes have impacted nations including United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Oman over the past week as the regional conflict intensifies.
The developments come amid a wider escalation involving Iran, Israel, and the United States, raising concerns about broader instability across the region.
In his address, Pezeshkian acknowledged the impact of the strikes and offered an apology to affected neighbours.
“I must apologise on my own behalf and on behalf of Iran to the neighbouring countries that were attacked by Iran,” Pezeshkian said.
The president attributed some of the incidents to internal confusion within Iran’s military structures following recent leadership changes in the country.
He referenced the death of Ali Khamenei, which has led to the formation of an interim leadership council overseeing national affairs. Pezeshkian currently serves as one of three members guiding the country’s leadership during the transition period.
According to Pezeshkian, the interim council has now authorised a directive ordering Iranian armed forces to avoid targeting neighbouring states unless attacks against Iran originate from their territory.
“We have no intention of attacking other nations,” he emphasised, while urging diplomatic engagement to reduce tensions.
Despite the apology, reports of fresh military activity continued on Saturday, with explosions reported over Doha, drone sightings near Dubai International Airport, and air defence systems activated across Bahrain, Saudi Arabia and the UAE.
Regional governments said they had intercepted several waves of missiles and drones, further heightening fears of a wider confrontation.
Pezeshkian also pushed back against calls from Washington for Iran to surrender unconditionally.
He dismissed the demand in strong terms, describing it as a “dream they should take to their grave.”
The remarks come as Israeli and US forces continue intensified airstrikes on Iranian targets, with the conflict entering its second week and drawing increasing international attention.
