In his address to the United Nations General Assembly, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian claimed that Iran is a peacemaker in the Middle East and accused Israel of supporting terrorism. Pezeshkian emphasized that Iran has never initiated a war but has defended itself heroically against external aggression. He also stated that Iran does not occupy territory or exploit resources for other countries. Despite these claims, Iran has been heavily involved in proxy wars in Syria and Yemen, causing divisions with Sunni nations like Saudi Arabia and the UAE. The country has also supported terrorist organizations like Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis, as well as bridges between the Taliban and al Qaeda.
Iran has aligned itself with adversarial nations like Russia and North Korea, but Pezeshkian claimed that Iran seeks lasting peace and security for the people of Ukraine and Russia. He opposed war and emphasized the need to end military hostilities in Ukraine. Pezeshkian called for a new paradigm to address global challenges, focusing on opportunities rather than perceived threats. He urged neighboring and brotherly countries to unite with Iran to advance the interests of the Middle East. Despite tensions with the U.S. due to the withdrawal from the 2015 nuclear agreement and subsequent sanctions, Pezeshkian expressed a desire to move forward with Washington.
However, Iran’s claims were met with skepticism by some experts who believe they are riddled with propaganda. Behnam Ben Taleblu, an Iran expert, criticized Pezeshkian for using the prospect of renewing diplomatic agreements as a shield against pressure on Iran’s nuclear program and support for a multi-front war against Israel. Ben Taleblu suggested that Pezeshkian’s comments were a tactical move to win support from certain crowds in Washington and Europe while running out the clock against future sanctions. Despite Pezeshkian’s comments on renewing diplomatic conversations with the U.S., it is unlikely that they will change the trajectory of Iran’s nuclear weapon development.
Overall, Pezeshkian’s address highlighted Iran’s efforts to portray itself as a peacemaker in the Middle East while simultaneously supporting terrorist organizations and aligning with adversarial nations like Russia and North Korea. Despite claiming to seek peace and security in Ukraine and Russia, Iran’s actions in providing military support to Russia in its war efforts raise doubts about its true intentions. The skepticism surrounding Pezeshkian’s comments suggests that Iran’s attempts to form diplomatic relationships with the U.S. and other Western nations may be viewed with caution due to its ongoing nuclear program and support for terrorism in the region.
