In a post on his X account on Saturday, Pezeshkian reaffirmed Iran's commitment to a defensive posture, stating that the nation does not preemptively attack but will retaliate against any aggression.
“We have repeatedly stated that Iran does not carry out preemptive attacks; however, in response to attacks on our infrastructure and economic centers, we will respond firmly to the criminal enemy,” the president said.
“I tell the countries in the region that if you seek development and security, do not allow our enemies to conduct the war from your country,” Pezeshkian added.
The US and the Israeli regime launched a large-scale unprovoked military campaign against Iran following the assassination of Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyed Ali Khamenei, along with several senior military commanders and civilians on February 28.
The attacks have involved extensive aerial strikes on both military and civilian locations across Iran, causing significant casualties and widespread damage to infrastructure.
In response, the Iranian Armed Forces have carried out retaliatory operations, targeting American and Israeli positions in the occupied territories and at regional bases with waves of missiles and drones.