In a recent development, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has accused Israel of intentionally escalating the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, claiming Israel is seeking to draw Iran into a wider war. Addressing the media on Monday, Pezeshkian alleged that Israel is creating “traps” to instigate Iran into a larger conflict, expressing Iran’s unwillingness to see the current Gaza war and Israeli-Lebanon border airstrikes escalate, reported AP News. “We don’t want to fight,” Pezeshkian declared. “It’s Israel that wants to drag everyone into war and destabilize the region. … They are dragging us to a point where we do not wish to go.”
These comments, made during Pezeshkian’s first appearance at the U.N. General Assembly since taking office in July, come as Israel intensifies its attacks on Iranian-backed Hezbollah militants in Lebanon. Pezeshkian condemned Israel’s actions, citing the recent deadly explosions in Lebanon and the assassination of Hamas’ political leader in Tehran, both of which he attributed to Israel. Despite Israel’s claims of not seeking a wider war, Pezeshkian argued that their actions suggest otherwise. He reiterated Iran’s commitment to peace, stating, “We are willing to put all our weapons aside so long as Israel is willing to do the same.”
The recent escalation of violence between Israel and Hezbollah has sparked international concern. Israeli airstrikes on Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon resulted in approximately 274 casualties on Monday. The conflict has been intensifying since Israel’s war with Hamas began last October. Despite the escalating conflict, oil prices fell by more than 1% on Monday due to concerns over weakened global demand. The conflict has not significantly affected energy supplies, with investors focusing more on the macroeconomic picture of slowing global consumption.
The U.S. has also expressed its concern, warning Israel against escalating hostilities with Hezbollah and highlighting the potential risks of a full-scale land war. The U.S. has urged Israel to seek diplomatic solutions to ensure the safety of Israeli citizens.
