Iranian president urges regional nations not to host ‘enemies’ war’

2026-03-28 - 12:50

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian issued a direct appeal to regional nations on Saturday, urging them not to allow what he called “enemies to run the war” from their soil. In a post on social media, Pezeshkian stated that Iran does not carry out preemptive attacks but vowed a strong response if its infrastructure or economic centers come under assault. “If you want development and security, don’t let our enemies run the war from your lands,” he wrote, addressing countries across the region. Tehran warns against hosting hostile operations The president’s remarks come amid escalating regional hostilities that have drawn in multiple nations since the US and Israel launched their joint offensive against Iran on February 28. The conflict has claimed over 1,340 lives, including former Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, and has seen Iran retaliate with waves of drone and missile strikes targeting Israel and Gulf states hosting American military assets. Pezeshkian’s message appeared aimed at Gulf countries, some of which have been targeted by Iranian strikes while also hosting US bases. Regional nations face difficult balancing act The Iranian president’s warning underscores the precarious position of regional states caught between Tehran and Washington. Several Gulf nations have faced Iranian missile and drone attacks since the war began, while also serving as hosts to US military forces. Türkiye, which has maintained diplomatic channels with both Iran and Western allies, has consistently advocated for de-escalation and warned that the use of regional territories for military operations risks drawing nations deeper into a conflict that threatens stability across the Middle East.