Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian addressed the American people in a social media letter, asserting that Iran has never initiated wars in modern history.
He described Tehran as historically non-aggressive and emphasised that the nation has only repelled attackers.
Pezeshkian rejected Western portrayals of Iran as a threat, arguing that such narratives serve political and economic interests. He highlighted Iran’s resilience despite sanctions, wars, and foreign interventions, pointing to progress in literacy, healthcare, and technology.
The president’s remarks came during the ongoing US-backed Israel versus Iran conflict, which began after joint strikes killed Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei on February 28. Pezeshkian framed Iran’s actions as legitimate self-defence, not aggression.
He reminded Americans of historical grievances, including the 1953 coup supported by the US, backing of Saddam Hussein during the 1980s war, and repeated sanctions. He argued that these actions deepened Iranian distrust of US policies.
Pezeshkian questioned whether the current war serves American interests, citing civilian casualties and the destruction of vital infrastructure. He accused Israel of manipulating US policy to fight Iran by proxy, shifting the burden onto American taxpayers and soldiers.
The letter urged Americans to look beyond misinformation and engage directly with Iranian culture and people. Pezeshkian concluded by stressing that confrontation only breeds instability, while engagement offers a path to peace and cooperation.
