Offer from Iran’s president to not attack neighbours provokes internal backlash

Iran’s president, Masoud Pezeshkian, said Iran would not attack neighbouring countries unless they are used to launch attacks against Iran. His statement, meant to calm tensions in the Middle East, included an apology to Gulf nations after recent strikes.

However, the move triggered criticism from hardliners inside Iran who believe the message shows weakness during a time of conflict. The backlash highlights divisions within Iran’s leadership about how aggressively the country should respond to its enemies.