Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian says the US and Israel are primarily responsible for regional instability as Japan urges diplomatic efforts to end the conflict.
WEB DESK: Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has rejected accusations that Tehran has sought to destabilise the region, saying the United States and Israel are primarily responsible for undermining peace and stability in the Middle East.
Pezeshkian made the remarks during a telephone conversation with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, according to Iranian media.
Pezeshkian rejects destabilisation claims
During the call, Pezeshkian said Iran had never sought to create insecurity or instability in the region and had not violated international law.
The Iranian president said Tehran had consistently sought to improve relations with neighbouring countries and maintain regional cooperation.
He also rejected what he described as attempts to portray Iran as responsible for instability in the region, placing the main responsibility on the United States and Israel.
Japan calls for diplomatic solution
According to Iranian media, Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi reiterated Tokyo’s support for using diplomatic channels to bring the war to an end.
Takaichi said a diplomatic approach would serve the long-term interests of both Iran and the wider region.
Japan has traditionally advocated diplomatic engagement in addressing tensions in the Middle East and has sought to maintain communication with regional powers.
Japan urges restraint over Bab el-Mandeb
During the conversation, Takaichi also asked Pezeshkian to use Iran’s influence to help prevent further escalation of tensions in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.
The strategic waterway connects the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden and is a major route for international commercial shipping.
Any prolonged escalation in the area could further disrupt maritime trade and increase pressure on global shipping and energy markets.
Regional tensions remain high
The conversation comes amid continuing tensions involving Iran, Israel and the United States, with diplomatic efforts focused on preventing the conflict from spreading further across the region.
Tehran has repeatedly maintained that its actions are defensive and that it supports regional stability, while the United States and Israel have accused Iran of supporting armed groups and contributing to regional insecurity.
