Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has delivered one of his most direct messages yet to Gulf countries, warning them that permitting adversaries to operate from their soil will come at the cost of their own security and prosperity. The statement, issued as the Iran-US war entered its second month, signals a shift in Tehran’s approach toward engaging its neighbours diplomatically while the conflict rages on. Iran appears to be pursuing a two-track strategy of military retaliation and diplomatic persuasion simultaneously.
The war’s widening geographic scope has implicated Gulf nations including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Oman, Kuwait, and Qatar, all of which host significant American military installations. Operations launched from these bases against Iran have made the host nations targets for Iranian counterstrikes. The situation has left Gulf governments navigating an increasingly narrow diplomatic corridor.
Through a post on social media platform X, Pezeshkian made clear that Iran maintains a defensive posture but will respond firmly to any assault on its national infrastructure or economic assets. He appealed directly to Gulf leaders to stop providing a platform for enemy operations against Iran, warning that doing so undermined their own chances for development and security. The message was delivered in firm but measured language.
Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has been at the forefront of regional peace efforts, engaging with Iranian leadership and facilitating dialogue across the parties involved. After speaking with Pezeshkian, Sharif conveyed that Tehran requires a foundation of trust before it can enter into any formal negotiations. Iran has publicly praised Pakistan’s role in the peace process, signalling its appreciation for Islamabad’s balanced approach.
In Pakistan, a key diplomatic meeting is underway involving the foreign ministers of Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Turkey, who are deliberating on strategies to ease tensions and pursue a political resolution. Their discussions with Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and Prime Minister Sharif are expected to outline a joint regional approach. The high-level nature of the talks signals that the international community views this diplomatic window as an important opportunity.