What the Iranian President’s peacekeeping rhetoric indicates
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian stated that during his presidency, the Islamic Republic did not supply missiles to russia.
▫️ However, he also noted that he does not know what contracts with russia were signed under his predecessor, Ebrahim Raisi. Pezeshkian once again emphasized the development of strong relations with russia but noted that his country adheres to the position that “no state has the right to invade the territory of another state”.
▫️ Thus, Iran continues to spread peaceful rhetoric despite the evidence of arms supplies to russia. Pezeshkian, who positioned himself as a more “liberal” candidate in the elections, is beneficial to the Islamic regime as a tool to improve its image. It is possible that with such statements, the Iranian President is trying to shift the blame onto his predecessor.
❗️Despite such rhetoric, Iran may benefit from the continuation of the war in Ukraine, as it distracts US attention and creates new opportunities for the Islamic Republic to increase its influence in the Middle East.
