Iranian president calls for reparations and guarantees to end conflict

ISLAMABAD: Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has stated that reparations and firm international guarantees against future aggression are essential to ending the ongoing war, which he described as being "ignited by the Zionist regime [of Israel] & US."

President Pezeshkian made these remarks in a late-night tweet on Wednesday, following discussions with leaders from Pakistan and Russia. He acknowledged the proposals put forward by both Pakistan and Russia aimed at de-escalating the conflict, which has now entered its second week.

In his message, President Pezeshkian said he had "reaffirmed Iran’s commitment to peace in the region," and emphasized that the only viable solution to the war involves "recognising Iran’s legitimate rights, payment of reparations, and firm int’l guarantees against future aggression."

The Iranian leader’s statement came after Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held a conversation with President Pezeshkian to discreetly explore the possibility of a ceasefire and an end to hostilities. Diplomatic sources noted that the dialogue between the two leaders was part of ongoing efforts to seek a peaceful resolution to the crisis.

Meanwhile, a senior aide to the Pakistani prime minister reiterated Islamabad’s support for Riyadh, stating that Pakistan continues to stand by Saudi Arabia "no matter what."

The situation remains tense as regional and international actors work to find a diplomatic off-ramp to the conflict. President Pezeshkian’s demand for reparations and guarantees highlights the conditions Tehran views as necessary for a sustainable peace.