Iran Says It Was Forced to Defend Itself After US-Israel Attacks Amid Regional Tensions

Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian stated that Tehran sought to avoid war through diplomacy but was compelled to defend itself following what he described as American and Israeli military aggression. Addressing Gulf and neighboring states, he emphasized respect for their sovereignty and called for regional security through collective efforts. The conflict escalated after US-Israel strikes killed Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, leading to missile and drone attacks by Iran on Gulf targets. Gulf states, including Qatar, have urged Iran to halt attacks to prevent wider regional conflict.