Tehran: In a significant diplomatic overture delivered on the occasion of Nowruz and Eid al-Fitr, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian called for the formation of an “Islamic Assembly of the Middle East” to coordinate regional security and economic relations. Speaking on Saturday, March 21, 2026, the President emphasized that Tehran does not seek conflict with its Islamic neighbours and urged regional powers to resist “traps set by enemies.” The message comes at a somber moment for the nation, as Pezeshkian offered formal condolences for the killing of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, along with several high-ranking ministers and civilians, during recent US-Israeli strikes.
Addressing the ongoing West Asia conflict as it enters its fourth week, Pezeshkian sought to reassure neighbouring states that Iran has no intention of interfering in their internal affairs or disrupting regional stability. He proposed the establishment of a self-reliant Islamic security framework that would eliminate the need for foreign military presence in the Gulf. “We do not want any country to be forced to stockpile weapons just to defend itself,” Pezeshkian stated, attributing the current turmoil and “acts of genocide” in the region specifically to Israeli interventions rather than Iranian policy.
The President’s message was heavily laced with calls for religious and national solidarity, particularly following the devastating strike on a Minab elementary school during the holy month of Ramadan. He urged Muslims across the Middle East to set aside grudges and unite against what he termed a “treacherous enemy” seeking to create discord. By referring to Iran’s neighbours as “brothers,” Pezeshkian expressed a readiness to resolve any past misunderstandings or damages in diplomatic relations through a collective political and cultural assembly.
Despite the conciliatory tone toward Muslim nations, the backdrop of the President’s speech remains one of intense regional crisis. The loss of the Supreme Leader has created a historic power vacuum in Tehran, even as US and Israeli forces continue their campaign. Pezeshkian’s proposal for an “Islamic Assembly” appears to be a strategic move to consolidate regional support and isolate Israel, while attempting to prevent further spill-over of the conflict into neighbouring territories.
