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Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian had a phone conversation with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on Tuesday, warning that U.S. threats aimed at Tehran would only create instability in the region.
“The threats and psychological operations by the Americans are targeted at destabilizing regional security and will only lead to unrest for them,” Pezeshkian told MBS, according to his office, after a U.S. aircraft carrier arrived in the region.
Pezeshkian emphasized that unity and cohesion among Islamic countries can ensure long-term security, stability, and peace across the Middle East.
The Iranian leader also stated that Tehran remains open to any diplomatic efforts, within the bounds of international law, that aim to prevent conflict.
This phone call comes as the U.S. has announced a multi-day Air Force drill in the Middle East. The move followed the arrival of the USS Abraham Lincoln strike group, significantly increasing American military presence in the area.
The upcoming exercise is meant to demonstrate the U.S. ability to deploy, disperse, and sustain combat airpower throughout the region. Specific dates and locations have not been disclosed.
In Iran, protests erupted in late December over economic issues, escalating into large-scale demonstrations from January 8. Former President Donald Trump repeatedly warned Iran that any violent suppression of protesters could trigger U.S. military intervention and encouraged Iranians to challenge the state, suggesting “help is on the way.” However, he later refrained from ordering strikes, claiming Tehran had halted executions under U.S. pressure.
Iran has also issued warnings about the consequences if the European Union proceeds with listing the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps as a terrorist organization. Italy’s foreign minister had urged Brussels to move forward with the designation, prompting Iran to respond by summoning Italy’s ambassador and condemning the move as reckless, warning of “destructive consequences” if it goes ahead.
Rome’s top diplomat, Antonio Tajani, indicated he would propose the idea during an upcoming EU foreign ministers meeting. Iran strongly criticized this stance, with the foreign ministry calling on Italy to reconsider its position.
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