Addressing religious scholars, intellectuals and businesspeople in India on Friday, Pezeshkian said history shows that bullies, oppressors and those who rely on force eventually face defeat or destruction. He added that individuals, families and rulers would be held accountable for how they treated others and whether they helped those in need.

He said Iran’s resistance to the US and the Israeli regime stems from its opposition to bullying and support for oppressed people, rejecting the notion that powerful governments have the right to impose their will on other nations or force them to follow their decisions.

Pezeshkian also said the US seeks to prevent nations from achieving independence, arguing that pressure, conflict and attempts to create divisions in Iran have intensified since the victory of the Islamic Revolution in 1979. He stressed that all nations and individuals have equal rights and should be able to coexist on the basis of justice and fairness.

The Iranian president said the teachings of prophets across different communities have centered on establishing justice and preventing oppression. Referring to the Quran, he said every community was sent a messenger and that prophets were tasked with establishing truth and justice among people.

He said humanity was originally one community and that divine guidance was intended to resolve disputes fairly, prevent conflict and ensure justice in society. Differences emerged, he explained, when people allowed selfishness and personal interests to replace truth, resulting in division, oppression and the abuse of power.

Pezeshkian said the essence of the straight path is to act justly, avoid wrongdoing, respect the rights of others and serve people. He stressed that these principles apply to everyone regardless of religion, belief, ethnicity, gender or nationality.

Explaining the concept of piety, he said a pious person is one who pursues a goal without wrongdoing or deviation. People, he added, should be judged by their conduct and commitment to justice rather than their identity or background.

Referring to Quranic teachings on social responsibility, Pezeshkian highlighted the importance of helping orphans, supporting the poor and standing with those facing injustice. He said religious practice cannot be separated from serving people and protecting vulnerable members of society.

The president also called on Iranian and Indian manufacturers and traders to expand sound economic relations, saying stronger interaction could contribute to growth, development and public welfare. He expressed hope that such cooperation would help build societies free from oppression, exploitation and colonial domination.

Concluding his remarks, Pezeshkian expressed hope for stronger Iran-India relations through greater solidarity, friendship, humanity and mutual understanding. He said the two countries could draw on their rich cultural histories and use closer ties to promote development and prosperity for their peoples.