‘We Apologise’: Iran Says It Won’t Strike Neighbours Unless Attacked in War with US–Israel
Iran says it will not attack its neighbours unless they attack it first. At the time Iran apologized for recent strikes that affected several Gulf states. This is happening while Iran is in a conflict with the United States and Israel.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian made this statement on TV. He said Tehran is sorry for the attacks on countries during the escalating war in the region.
Iran’s Apology to Neighbours
In his speech Pezeshkian said Iran’s leaders decided to stop strikes on neighbours. This will happen unless those countries are used to launch attacks on Iran.
- "I must say sorry for Iran and for myself to the countries that were attacked " he said.
- He added that no missiles will be fired unless an attack on Iran starts from those countries.
This seems to be an attempt to calm things down with Gulf nations. Some of these nations have US bases and have been caught in the crossfire of the growing conflict.
Background: Escalating Middle East War
The statement comes as the Iran–US–Israel war enters its week. This happened after military strikes. The conflict started after US and Israeli air attacks on Iran on 28 February 2026. These attacks killed Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. This triggered retaliation by Tehran.
Since then Iran has launched missile and drone attacks against Israel and US interests. These include targets in Gulf countries that host American military bases.
Some strikes also hit areas in countries like the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Qatar. This raised concerns that the conflict could expand into a regional war.
Conditional De-Escalation
Iran’s announcement suggests it might calm down. Tehran said it would stop attacks on states. This is as long as those territories are not used to launch strikes on Iran.
Analysts say the statement may be aimed at stopping Middle Eastern countries from joining the conflict. This could further isolate Iran diplomatically and militarily.
At the time Iranian leaders made it clear that the country will keep fighting Israel and US forces.
Rejecting Calls for Surrender
During the speech Pezeshkian rejected calls from US leaders demanding Iran’s surrender. He declared that Iran would "never surrender" despite the military pressure.
The Iranian government also warned that it would respond strongly. This if neighbouring countries allow attacks on Iran to be launched from their territory.
Global Concerns
The conflict has already disrupted energy markets and shipping routes. This is around the strategic Strait of Hormuz. This is a corridor for global oil exports.
International leaders and organizations are increasingly calling for diplomatic efforts. They want to prevent a regional war in the Middle East.
Outlook
Iran’s apology and pledge not to attack neighbouring states unless provoked may help reduce tensions in the Gulf. However with military strikes, between Iran, Israel and US forces the situation remains volatile. It could escalate further.
