Iran urges neighbors to prevent external forces from influencing conflict

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has issued a warning to neighboring countries, urging them not to allow their territory to be used for operations against Iran in the ongoing conflict with the United States and Israel.

In a statement posted on X on Saturday, Pezeshkian stated that Iran does not carry out preemptive attacks, but will retaliate strongly if its infrastructure or economic centers are targeted. He also emphasized the importance of regional development and security, advising countries to distance themselves from the conflict.

This warning comes as part of a series of calls by Iranian officials, including Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, who have urged neighboring states not to allow their territory to be used for operations against Iran.

The conflict began on February 28, when the US and Israel launched air strikes across Iran, killing Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Since then, the conflict has shown no signs of ending, with both sides engaging in a series of attacks and counter-attacks.

Recent incidents have included drone attacks on international airports and facilities in Kuwait, Abu Dhabi, and Oman, as well as strikes on Saudi Arabia’s Prince Sultan Air Base. Iran has also claimed to have struck a Ukrainian anti-drone system depot in Dubai, alleging that it supported the US military.

The situation remains fluid, with multiple countries reporting incidents and casualties. The United States, Israel, and their allies continue to engage in operations against Iranian targets, while Iran responds with its own attacks.

Source: Al Jazeera