7.3.2026
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian apologized while announcing a policy to halt attacks on neighboring countries. Iran had previously launched retaliatory strikes against Gulf States following U.S. and Israeli airstrikes.
President Pezeshkian stated in a national TV address, “We apologize to neighboring countries that were attacked by Iran,” adding, “We will not fire missiles at those nations unless they attack us first.” He emphasized, “Iran has no intention of invading other countries.”
Iran had targeted U.S. military facilities in Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) after being attacked by the U.S. and Israel. However, growing civilian casualties led to widespread criticism. Iran repeatedly stressed that its strikes were aimed at U.S. assets, such as military bases in the region, not Gulf states themselves.
Analysts suggest Iran’s decision to halt attacks on Gulf states reflects concerns over potential military responses from those nations and military support from Europe. Gulf countries like the UAE, Qatar, and Bahrain—primary targets of Iran’s strikes—have considered military retaliation due to escalating damage. Major European nations, including the UK, France, Germany, and Italy, have formalized military support for U.S. and Gulf forces, citing the protection of their citizens and military bases.
President Pezeshkian dismissed U.S. demands for “unconditional surrender,” calling it “a dream they will take to their graves.” Earlier, U.S. President Donald Trump had stated on his social media platform Truth Social, “There will be no negotiations with Iran except for unconditional surrender.” Agency reports