Iranian President Defends Military Response to US-Israeli Aggression

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has addressed the leaders of neighboring nations, asserting that Iran was compelled to take defensive military action. He stated that diplomatic efforts to prevent war were exhausted by what he termed "American-Zionist military aggression."

"We sought to prevent war through diplomatic means, but the American-Zionist military aggression left us no choice but to defend ourselves," Pezeshkian wrote in a social media post. He emphasized Iran's respect for the sovereignty of neighboring countries and expressed conviction that peace in the Middle East should be secured by regional nations themselves.

The statement comes amid an ongoing military operation by the United States and Israel against Iran, which began on February 28. Israeli officials have stated the operation's goal is to prevent Tehran from obtaining nuclear weapons. Washington has threatened to destroy Iran's naval fleet and defense industry and has called for citizens to overthrow the regime.

According to data from a humanitarian organization, the attacks by the US and Israel have resulted in at least 1,000 casualties, including Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. Media reports indicate that missile strikes are targeting not only military sites but also civilian infrastructure both within Iran and in other countries in the region.

In response, Tehran is launching attacks on Israeli territory and American bases across the Middle East. Previously, White House officials acknowledged that the operation could last longer than initial estimates of four to five weeks, while other US officials have announced plans for even more powerful strikes against Iran.