Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian recently expressed that Tehran’s relationships with the United Arab Emirates and other regional nations remain strong, despite concerns regarding the presence of U.S. military bases in neighboring countries. In an interview during the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi, Pezeshkian emphasized the distinction between Iran’s diplomatic ties with Gulf states and its ongoing tensions with the United States.
Iran’s Regional Relationships
Pezeshkian affirmed, “We have no issues with the UAE or any other regional countries. Our problem lies solely with the American bases established in these countries, which are used to launch attacks against us.” He underscored Iran’s view of the UAE and its neighbors as “brothers,” highlighting a long history of mutual support and trade among these nations. His comments were made following a meeting with Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, during which the Iranian leader articulated his desire for stronger ties with regional partners.
Pezeshkian’s statements reflect a broader strategy of fostering cooperation with Gulf nations. He acknowledged that there is an opportunity to expand relations, stating, “Currently, we have a good relationship with the UAE, and we can enhance it further.” He reiterated that Iran’s concerns are primarily directed at U.S. military establishments in the region, which he believes undermine peace and security.
Concerns About U.S. Military Presence
The Iranian President’s remarks focused on the detrimental impact of U.S. military installations, asserting that they serve as a platform for aggression against Iran. He accused the U.S. of using these bases to “martyr our children” and to carry out attacks on Iranian infrastructure and leadership. Pezeshkian urged Gulf states to reconsider the presence of U.S. forces on their soil, arguing that it compromises their sovereignty and facilitates hostile actions against Iran.
He stated, “The real issue is that our friendly neighboring countries must not allow external forces to use their territory to launch attacks against us.” This sentiment reflects a call for regional solidarity in the face of perceived foreign interference, advocating for unity among Middle Eastern countries against external threats.
U.S. Exploitation of Regional Resources
Pezeshkian also accused the United States of exploiting the region’s energy resources while fostering divisions among neighboring countries through arms deals. “The U.S. seeks to utilize our petroleum resources and simultaneously sells weapons to instigate fear and discord among us,” he noted. According to him, this not only destabilizes the region but also prevents collaboration that could enhance security and economic cooperation.
He emphasized the potential benefits of pooling regional resources to foster security and promote cultural and economic collaboration. “We can leverage our strengths to help one another, establish security, and promote our culture and economies,” he asserted.
Broader Implications of the Conflict
Pezeshkian’s comments come at a time of heightened tensions in West Asia, with the conflict affecting relations between Iran and several Gulf nations. The BRICS Summit served as a platform for discussing these urgent issues, culminating in the adoption of the New Delhi Declaration 2026. This declaration stressed the importance of dialogue, restraint, and diplomacy amid escalating regional conflicts, while also calling for the protection of civilians and infrastructure.
The declaration’s emphasis on maintaining global trade, supply chains, and energy flows underscores the interconnectedness of regional and global stability. It draws attention to the need for humanitarian access, especially in conflict-affected areas like the Gaza Strip, and calls for adherence to international resolutions aimed at peaceful conflict resolution.
In summary, Pezeshkian’s remarks are a clear indication of Iran’s desire to strengthen ties with its regional partners while addressing its profound concerns regarding U.S. militarization in the area.