By Aaior K. Comfort

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has accused Israel of intentionally seeking to escalate tensions in the Middle East while asserting that Tehran has been exercising restraint to pursue regional peace. Speaking to journalists during the UN General Assembly in New York, Pezeshkian emphasized, “If a larger war were to erupt in the Middle East, it will not benefit anyone.”

His comments come as Israel conducts strikes in Lebanon following attacks on communications devices linked to the Iranian-backed militia Hezbollah. The political climate has grown more tense since Pezeshkian’s inauguration in July, particularly after the assassination of a Hamas political chief in Tehran, which was widely attributed to Israeli forces.

Pezeshkian referenced Western appeals for Iran to avoid retaliation amid ongoing violence in Gaza, stating, “We tried to not respond,” yet expressing frustration over the lack of progress toward peace. He condemned Israel’s military actions, claiming they have resulted in significant civilian casualties.

While he did not directly answer whether Iran would retaliate against Israel, he questioned the narrative that positions Iran as the instigator of regional insecurity. He highlighted the ongoing humanitarian crisis, with the UN confirming that Israel’s military response has led to substantial casualties in Gaza.