Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said today’s global conflicts are rooted in aggression and the looting of nations’ resources, questioning why children, women, and the sick are bombed without restraint, and stating that slogans such as democracy and human rights are often used to justify unjust actions and selective attacks on resource-rich regions.
Addressing a meeting with religious figures in Tehran on Monday, marking the 47th anniversary of the Islamic Revolution, President Pezeshkian stressed the principled policy of Iran, saying that from the outset the Islamic Republic has made it clear it does not seek war, but rather unity, cohesion and service to the people.
He noted that economic pressures are being used to obstruct public service in an effort to portray the system as ineffective. Pezeshkian added that God has called followers of all religions to worship Him alone and not bow to anything other than God, stressing that Iran will not bow, while remaining obliged to treat all of God’s servants with fairness, justice and compassion.
The president condemned Western hypocrisy on democracy and human rights, arguing these concepts are often used selectively to justify intervention and pressure on nations, rather than promote genuine justice. Adversaries constantly try to prevent Iranians from standing on their own feet, he said, calling for equal respect and fair treatment in international relations.
He highlighted shared values across divine religions, emphasizing that prophets were sent to establish justice, promote mercy, honesty, and protect human rights. He stressed that if people respect one another’s rights and act with compassion, much of today’s conflicts could be avoided.
Referring to religious teachings, he underscored that true faith is reflected in just behavior and ethical leadership, not merely ritual observance. He cited the Quranic principle that all humans are equal and that superiority comes only through righteousness and good conduct.
President Pezeshkian concluded by asserting that Iran will continue to seek unity, uphold its values and resist external pressures while working to build a prosperous, dignified future for all Iranians regardless of ethnicity, religion, or gender.