Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has told Gulf nations in no uncertain terms to stop allowing outside powers to fight wars from their territory, warning that this approach is destroying any chance of regional security and development. His message was delivered via X as the Iran-US war surpassed one month. Pezeshkian addressed Gulf governments directly, urging them to take ownership of their regional role.
Countries including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Kuwait, Oman, and Qatar have seen their territory drawn into the conflict as the United States has used military bases there to launch strikes against Iran. Tehran has responded with retaliatory strikes in those countries, making Gulf states reluctant participants in an active war. The situation has complicated diplomatic relationships and alarmed regional populations.
Pezeshkian reaffirmed that Iran does not engage in preemptive military action and will only strike in response to attacks on its infrastructure or economic centers. He made clear that Gulf nations must choose between serving as a platform for enemy operations or preserving their own stability. His appeal was wrapped in the language of regional solidarity, though it carried an unmistakable warning.
Pakistan’s diplomatic engagement has been widely recognized as crucial. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif disclosed that Pezeshkian stressed trust-building as a foundational element before peace talks can realistically proceed. Pakistan’s foreign ministry is hosting foreign ministers from Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Turkey for focused discussions on de-escalation and regional stability.
Pakistan’s Ishaq Dar will chair the talks and arrange meetings with Prime Minister Sharif. Tehran has praised Islamabad for its earnest peacemaking efforts and views Pakistan as a credible intermediary. The talks in Islamabad may prove to be the most important diplomatic moment since the war began.