Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has sent a firm and public warning to Gulf neighbors, making clear that nations allowing the United States and Israel to use their territory against Iran will face consequences. The statement, broadcast via X, has landed at a critical juncture as the Iran-US conflict stretches past its first month. Tehran is clearly signaling that it views the behavior of Gulf host nations as a contributing factor to the ongoing violence.
Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Kuwait, Oman, and Qatar have all been struck by Iranian missiles in what Tehran describes as retaliatory actions. The presence of active American military bases on their soil has made these countries indirect participants in the conflict. Their governments now face mounting pressure from both Washington and Tehran.
Pezeshkian was careful to maintain Iran’s defensive framing, insisting the country does not attack first but will always respond to attacks on its critical infrastructure. He then addressed Gulf governments in clear terms, warning that choosing to host the war means choosing to sacrifice their own stability. The choice, he said, was theirs to make.
Pakistan’s role as a trusted diplomatic intermediary continues to grow. Prime Minister Sharif communicated the outcome of his conversation with Pezeshkian, noting the Iranian leader’s emphasis on trust as a precondition for talks. Iran has praised Pakistan’s willingness to take the lead in regional peace-making efforts.
A summit hosted in Pakistan is bringing together foreign ministers from Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Turkey for structured discussions on reducing regional tensions. Pakistan’s foreign minister Ishaq Dar is managing the process, ensuring that all parties have a platform. The talks are described as covering a broad range of issues connected to the ongoing conflict.