Iran president says his remarks misinterpreted by enemy sowing rift in regime

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said his remarks about attacks affecting Gulf countries had been "misinterpreted by the enemy," after his earlier apology to neighbouring states sparked political debate at home.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Sunday said his recent comments about attacks in the Gulf had been “misinterpreted by the enemy”, after his remarks were seen by some as suggesting Tehran would suspend strikes on neighbouring countries.

Speaking on state television, Pezeshkian said Iran sought good relations with regional states and had no intention of creating divisions with its neighbours.

“It has repeatedly been said we are brothers and must have good relations with neighbours. However, we are forced to retaliate to attacks, but this does not mean we have a dispute with a neighbouring country or want to upset their people,” he said.

His clarification came after earlier remarks, including an apology to neighbouring states affected by Iranian attacks, triggered debate within Iran and across the region.

Pezeshkian had earlier apologised to Gulf countries affected by Iranian strikes targeting US military facilities in the region, urging them not to join the US-Israel campaign against Iran.

“I personally apologise to neighbouring countries that were affected by Iran’s actions,” he said, while rejecting US President Donald Trump’s demand for Iran’s unconditional surrender as "a dream."