Pezeshkian says Iran seeks no territorial expansion, accuses Israel of 'Greater Israel' push

TEHRAN, Iran — President Masoud Pezeshkian said Iran does not aim to invade other countries or expand its territory, accusing Israel instead of pursuing a "Greater Israel." Speaking in remarks carried by Iranian media, Pezeshkian said Iran views all neighboring countries as brothers and sees no need for conflict. The president accused Israel and the United States of trying to incite Gulf states against Iran, adding that Tehran was working to overcome those efforts. He also said the U.S. wants to fully disarm Iran's forces, a step he said would not be permitted. Pezeshkian said negotiations with France had reached an agreement, but that the U.S. blocked it, adding that Europe lacked the ability to make independent decisions. He referenced a U.S. strike on a school in Minab, saying it was launched from the territory of Muslim countries, and that Iran responds only from locations where it comes under attack. The president said Iran was preserving its unity against attempts by its adversaries to create discord, and added that its armed forces have surprised the world.