BISHKEK, Sept. 2 — Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian called for a stronger United Nations role in resolving global crises during a meeting Monday with UN Secretary-General António Guterres on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit in Kyrgyzstan. Iranian media reported that Pezeshkian thanked Guterres for condemning what Tehran described as recent US and Israeli attacks against Iran.
The Iranian leader pointed to what he called a lack of commitment by some countries to international laws, describing the US attack on Iran and the targeting of officials, civilians, and infrastructure as violations of international law and humanitarian principles. Pezeshkian criticized what he termed double standards in global affairs, saying countries that present themselves as defenders of democracy and human rights must be held accountable for their actions.
He said Iran does not seek conflict and that the continuation of hostilities serves no one’s interests. Ending the current crisis, he argued, requires the United States to return to its commitments and respect Iran’s rights, adding that Tehran would not accept threats or the use of force. The Iranian president said his country seeks regional stability through engagement with neighboring states and continues to pursue dialogue to resolve disputes, though he described certain actions by the United States and Israel as obstacles.
Turning to Gaza and Lebanon, Pezeshkian described the humanitarian situation as alarming and urged the international community not to allow countries to violate international law simply because they possess greater military power. Guterres said he has consistently worked to promote respect for the rule of law, peace, and the reduction of conflicts, emphasizing that his position on the recent Iran-related conflict was based on the need for a peaceful and diplomatic solution.
He said he believed Israel had drawn the United States into a war with Iran and that the objective was to weaken Iran. The UN chief noted he was the only UN secretary-general who condemned the attack on Iran at the Security Council, a position that brought significant pressure and consequences. He said the United Nations had welcomed the recent agreement aimed at ending the war as an important political achievement, though the process later faced challenges.
Guterres expressed hope the conflict would end as soon as possible, praising Pakistan’s role as a mediator in helping build understanding among the parties and regional countries. He said continued diplomatic efforts and regional cooperation could pave the way for lasting peace, stability, and security.
