Key facts
- Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian stated that Iran defends its borders but does not seek to expand the war.
- Pezeshkian described Iran's actions as legitimate self-defense.
- The remarks were made during escalating global concern over the conflict's potential to spread.
- Tensions have heightened in the Strait of Hormuz, with Iran imposing restrictions on maritime traffic.
- The US has imposed a naval blockade, disrupting global shipping.
- Diplomatic talks have stalled, with Iran citing "maximalist" US demands.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has stated that the country defends its borders but does not seek an expansion of the ongoing conflict, emphasizing that Iran's actions are purely defensive amid escalating tensions with Western powers.
"Iran is not seeking to expand the war… We have not attacked any country, and under the current circumstances we have no intention of attacking any side. We are only engaged in legitimate self-defense," Pezeshkian said. His remarks come at a time of growing global concern over the conflict's potential to spread.
The statement follows heightened tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, where Iran recently imposed restrictions on maritime traffic amid a naval blockade imposed by the United States. Reports indicate that the standoff has disrupted global shipping and increased fears of a broader regional crisis.