Tehran — In a phone call with the Emir of Qatar, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian expressed regret over a recent missile strike, emphasizing that the attack was a reaction to U.S. involvement in Israeli military operations against Iranian targets and not directed at Qatar.

“This conversation is intended to extend our respect and consolation to Your Excellency and the Qatari nation,” Pezeshkian said during the call. “The incident was merely a response to the United States’ direct and overt support for the Zionist regime’s aggression against Iran. It should not be construed as a confrontation with our friend and neighbor, Qatar.”

Pezeshkian affirmed that both the Iranian government and people deeply value Qatar’s “friendly and brotherly” stance, expressing gratitude for Doha’s continued solidarity, especially during times of crisis.

He added that Tehran had been engaged in negotiations when it was “suddenly attacked,” and stressed that any suggestion to resolve the situation diplomatically could not be considered under “military pressure or aggression.” He insisted that a firm response was required before Iran could return to the negotiating table.

“Those backing Israel now understand that Iran, like Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria, cannot be destabilized with a handful of strikes,” the president said. “The Iranian people will stand resolute in defending their legitimate rights.”

Pezeshkian thanked the Emir for his efforts to de-escalate the conflict and reiterated that the missile launch was not intended as a hostile act toward Qatar. “We hope the people of this brotherly and friendly nation recognize our position,” he said.

The Iranian president concluded by reaffirming his commitment to strengthening relations with Qatar and expressed a desire to visit Doha soon to discuss expanding bilateral ties.

محمود مجدی