Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said Tuesday that the Iranian delegation would firmly defend Tehran’s positions at international forums, describing his visit to New York for the 81st UN General Assembly as an opportunity to present Iran’s views, explain regional realities and convey the Iranian people’s message to global public opinion.
Speaking at a press conference before his departure, President Pezeshkian referred to this year’s General Assembly theme of “trust,” saying international legal principles and the rights of nations and individuals are sometimes disregarded because some powers possess political, military and economic leverage.
He said the UN General Assembly nevertheless provides a platform to explain both the suffering and strength of the Iranian people. During the visit, he added, the Iranian delegation would hold meetings with political figures, cultural personalities and international media.
President Pezeshkian said the Iranian people had emerged from recent difficulties with dignity and pride. Despite pressure and hardships, he said, they would continue defending their country, beliefs and values.
Iran to highlight regional developments
President Pezeshkian said discussions in New York would focus on regional realities, the suffering of the Iranian people, crimes committed in the region and developments that have contributed to declining international trust.
He criticized the United States’ record of failing to honor its commitments in negotiations and agreements, saying Iran has repeatedly entered negotiations and reached agreements, only for the other side to walk away from its obligations.
He said lasting peace required respect for the rights of nations and individuals, adding that force could not be used to compel countries to submit.
Referring to Gaza, Palestine, Syria, Yemen and Iran, President Pezeshkian questioned claims of fighting terrorism when civilians, homes, hospitals and public facilities are attacked. Were the innocent Minab students terrorists? he asked, also questioning whether attacks in Lamerd were directed at terrorists.
He said preventing people in Gaza from accessing food and water and targeting women, children and the elderly were incompatible with human rights claims.
President Pezeshkian also said restrictions on Iran’s accompanying media team would not prevent Tehran from conveying its message, noting that numerous international media outlets were present in New York.
He said pressure on Iran extended beyond media restrictions to economic and political pressure and attempts to create internal divisions. President Pezeshkian said national unity would enable Iran to withstand such efforts.